Foamable vehicles and pharmaceutical compositions comprising aprotic polar solvents and uses thereof

ABSTRACT

The present invention teaches a foamable pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions comprising an aprotic polar solvent; foam compositions and uses thereof.

BACKGROUND

This Invention relates to foamable pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions and foams, containing aprotic polar solvents and uses.

External topical administration is an important route for the administration of drugs in disease treatment. Administration into body cavities is gaining in importance. Many groups of drugs, including, for example, antibiotic, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anesthetic, analgesic, anti-allergic, corticosteroid, retinoid and anti-proliferative medications are preferably administered in creams and ointment.

There are many different types of foams and within each foam type there are many levels of qualities. For example, the froth on the head of beer, lather of shampoo, and lather of shaving cream have been loosely described as foam but all are different from one another. Such differences speak to usability applicability. At one end of the cosmetic or pharmaceutical foam spectrum, the foam can be long-lasting and not readily breakable upon mechanical stimulation like shaving foams. Such foams lack suitability for pharmaceutical use since they lather with mechanical stimulation and require washing off. At the other end of the spectrum, the foam can be quick breaking without mechanical stimulation and collapse upon release. Such foams can be inconvenient since they can disappear rapidly before they can be conveniently applied to the intended target. Yet another type of foam is delayed foaming gel which is expelled as a gel but is said to expand into a type of foam on exposure to body temperature. Such expansion can be slow or delayed and inconvenient. Foams are considered a more convenient vehicle for topical delivery of active agents. There are several types of topical foams, including aqueous foams, such as commonly available shaving foams; hydroalcoholic foams; emulsion-based foams, comprising oil and water components; and oleaginous foams, which consist of high oil content. In skin therapy, oil containing foams are preferred, since oil contributes to skin protection and moisturization, which improve the therapeutic effect of the formulation. Typically foams are made using liquefied hydrocarbon gas propellant, such as propane, butane and isobutene, or hydro-fluoro carbon propellants.

Formulations containing aprotic polar solvents, such as Dimethyl sulfoxide (“DMSO”), have been occasionally known. However, these formulations have only been known as creams, gels or liquid formulations. Yet, despite the many benefits of pharmaceutical and cosmetic foam formulations, until now DMSO-containing formulations have not been developed in a commercial foam form.

SUMMARY

The present invention relates to foamable pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions and foams, comprising aprotic polar solvents.

There is provided, easy to use, stable foamable formulations and foams containing aprotic polar solvents, with improved delivery properties, especially for treatment of dermal and mucosal tissues.

In one or more embodiments waterless formulations comprising at least one aprotic polar solvent are provided. In certain embodiments the waterless formulations are formulated with surfactant. In some embodiments they may also comprise a polymer and or a foam adjuvant. In certain other embodiments they are formulated without surfactant. Surfactant free formulations may in one or more embodiments comprise a polymer and or a foam adjuvant and preferably both. In one or more embodiments the aprotic waterless formulation comprises a short chain alcohol. In one or more embodiments the waterless formulation may form an emulsion, for example between a hydrophobic phase and an aprotic phase. In certain embodiments the formulation may be a single phase until addition of propellant. In one or more embodiments an emulsion is formed or reformed after addition of hydrophobic propellant.

In one or more other embodiments water comprising formulations comprising at least one aprotic polar solvent are provided. In certain embodiments the water comprising formulations are formulated with surfactant. In some embodiments they may also comprise a polymer and or a foam adjuvant. In certain other embodiments they are formulated without surfactant. Surfactant free formulations may in one or more embodiments comprise a polymer and or a foam adjuvant and preferably both. In one or more embodiments the aprotic-aqueous formulation comprises a short chain alcohol. In one or more embodiments the water comprising formulation may form an emulsion, for example between a hydrophobic phase and an aqueous aprotic phase. In certain embodiments the formulation may be a single phase until addition of propellant. In one or more embodiments an emulsion is formed or reformed after addition of hydrophobic propellant.

According to one or more embodiments the foamable carrier comprises:

-   1. An aprotic polar solvent; -   2. At least one foaming or stabilizing, member, selected from the     group, consisting of:     -   a. a surface-active agent;     -   b. a foam adjuvant; and     -   c. a polymeric agent;     -   and -   3. A liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration of     about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

According to one or more embodiments the foamable carrier comprises:

-   1. An aprotic polar solvent; -   2. At least one foaming or stabilizing member, selected from the     group, consisting of:     -   a. a surface-active agent;     -   b. a foam adjuvant; and     -   c. a polymeric agent; -   3. At least one solvent, selected from the group, consisting of:     -   a. water     -   b. a protic polar solvent; and     -   c. a hydrophobic carrier;     -   and -   4. A liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration of     about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

According to one or more embodiments the foamable composition is aqueous and comprises two or more of the foaming or stabilizing members. In one or more embodiments the composition further comprises one of a protic polar solvent or a hydrophobic carrier or mixtures thereof.

According to one or more embodiments the foamable carrier is water-containing (aqueous) and comprises:

-   1. An aprotic polar solvent -   2. At least two foaming or stabilizing members, selected from the     group, consisting of:     -   a. a surface-active agent;     -   b. a foam adjuvant; and     -   c. a polymeric agent; -   3. Water and optionally at least one solvent, selected from the     group, consisting of:     -   a. a protic polar solvent; and     -   b. a hydrophobic carrier;     -   and -   4. A liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration of     about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

According to one or more certain embodiments the aqueous foamable carrier is aqueous without a hydrophobic carrier and comprises one stabilizing member comprising a non ionic surfactant with a HLB between about 9 to about 16.

According to one or more embodiments, the foamable composition, comprises a therapeutically effective concentration of an aprotic polar solvent, which possesses inherent therapeutic properties.

In preferred embodiments, the therapeutic aprotic polar solvent comprises Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO).

The carrier or pharmaceutical or cosmetic composition is stored in a pressurized canister and when released a foam is formed that is thermally stable, yet breaks easily upon application of shear force. So in one or more embodiments the foam composition is breakable. The breakable foam is thermally stable, yet breaks easily upon application of shear force. By thermally stable is meant that the foam is stable for a sufficient period of time—both at room temperature and when applied to the skin or subjected to at temperature of about 36 C—to facilitate easy and relaxed use and allow for possible distractions or interruptions. In one or more embodiments the foam is stable for at least about 30 secs, at least about 40 secs, at least about 50 secs, at least about 60 secs, at least about 80 secs, at least about 100 secs, at least about 120 secs, at least about 140 secs, at least about 160 secs, at least about 180 secs, at least about 210 secs, at least about 240 secs, at least about 270 secs or at least about 300 secs.

In one or more alternative embodiments the foam composition is quick-break or thermolabile. The quick-breaking foam is thermally instable, and collapses easily upon exposure to body temperature without the need to apply shear force. In one or more embodiments the foam has low stability or is unstable and collapses in less than about 30 secs, in less than about 25 secs, in less than about 20 secs, in less than about 15 secs; in less than about 10 secs, or in less than about 5 secs. Foam can be quick-breaking, for example, wherein the foam formulation comprises high levels of a short chain alcohol, such as, ethanol.

According to one or more embodiments the concentration of the aprotic polar solvent, about 3% to about 97% by weight of the total composition.

According to one or more embodiments, the composition comprises a hydrophobic carrier; and the composition is an emulsion between the water/aprotic polar solvent mixture and the hydrophobic carrier.

According to one or more embodiments, the composition is waterless. In some embodiments the composition is waterless and comprises a protic polar solvent or a hydrophobic carrier or mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments, the composition is waterless, and the composition is a waterless emulsion between the aprotic polar solvent and the hydrophobic carrier.

According to one or more embodiments, the composition is substantially waterless.

According to one or more embodiments the foamable carrier is non-aqueous (waterless) and comprises:

-   1. An aprotic polar solvent -   2. At least one foaming or stabilizing member, selected from the     group, consisting of:     -   a. a surface-active agent;     -   b. a foam adjuvant; and     -   c. a polymeric agent; -   3. Optionally at least one solvent, selected from the group,     consisting of:     -   a. a protic polar solvent; and     -   b. a hydrophobic carrier;     -   and -   4. A liquefied or compressed-gas propellant at a concentration of     about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

According to one or more embodiments, the foamable carrier is substantially non-aqueous (substantially waterless), and comprises:

-   -   a) An aprotic polar solvent     -   b) At least one member, selected from the group, consisting of:         -   I. a surface-active agent;         -   II. a foam adjuvant; and         -   III. a polymeric agent;     -   c) Up to about 5% water and optionally a solvent, selected from         the group, consisting of:         -   I. a protic polar solvent; and         -   II. a hydrophobic carrier;             -   and     -   d) A liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration         of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

According to one or more embodiments, the foamable carrier is substantially waterless, and comprises:

-   -   a) An aprotic polar solvent     -   b) At least one member, selected from the group, consisting of:         -   I. a surface-active agent;         -   II. a foam adjuvant; and         -   III. a polymeric agent;     -   c) At least two solvents, one of which is water selected from         the group, consisting of:         -   IV. Up to about 5% water;         -   V. a protic polar solvent; and         -   VI. a hydrophobic carrier;             -   and     -   d) A liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration         of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition:

According to one or more embodiments, the composition is alcohol-free, or substantially alcohol-free. According to one or more other certain embodiments the composition is alcoholic.

According to one or more embodiments, the composition is a waterless foamable carrier comprising:

-   -   a. DMSO     -   b. At least one foaming or stabilizing member, selected from the         group, consisting of:         -   i. a solid surface-active agent at room temperature having a             HLB of less than about 5;         -   ii. a foam adjuvant;         -   iii. hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose;         -   iv. a surface active agent and a foam adjuvant and or             hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose;         -   v. a surface active agent and a foam adjuvant and a             polymeric agent; and         -   vi. a foam adjuvant and a polymeric agent;     -   c. Optionally or at least one solvent, selected from the group,         consisting of:         -   i. a protic polar solvent; and         -   II. a hydrophobic carrier;     -   and     -   d. A liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration         of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.         wherein the resultant foam formed from the carrier is thermally         stable, yet breaks easily upon application of shear force.

According to one or more embodiments, the hydrophobic solvent comprises a petrolatum.

According to one or more embodiments, the protic polar solvent comprises ethanol.

According to one or more embodiments, the composition further comprises urea.

According to one or more embodiments, the composition is a water containing foamable carrier comprising:

-   -   a. DMSO     -   b. At least two foaming or stabilizing members, selected from         the group, consisting of:         -   i. a surface-active agent;         -   ii. a foam adjuvant;         -   iii. a polymeric agent; and         -   iv. a foam adjuvant and a polymeric agent;     -   c. Water and optionally or at least one solvent, selected from         the group, consisting of:         -   i. a protic polar solvent; and         -   ii. a hydrophobic carrier;     -   and     -   d. A liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration         of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.         wherein the resultant foam formed from the carrier is thermally         stable, yet breaks easily upon application of shear force.

According to one or more embodiments, the water is less than about 5% and the formulation is substantially waterless.

According to one or more embodiments the foamable carrier, further comprises an active agent; In one or more additional embodiments, the aprotic polar solvents possesses inherent therapeutic properties and therefore it can be considered as an “active agent”.

According to one or more embodiments the method of treating a disorder of a mammalian subject, includes:

administering a foamable therapeutic composition to a target site, the composition comprising:

-   -   a. An aprotic polar solvent     -   b. At least one foaming or stabilizing member, selected from the         group, consisting of:         -   i. a surface-active agent;         -   ii. a foam adjuvant; and         -   iii. a polymeric agent;     -   c. Optionally or at least one solvent, selected from the group,         consisting of:         -   i. water;         -   ii. a protic polar solvent; and         -   iii. a hydrophobic carrier;             and     -   d. A liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration         of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

According to one or more embodiments the method of treating a disorder of a mammalian subject, includes:

-   -   administering a foamable therapeutic composition to a target         site, the composition comprising:     -   1. An aprotic polar solvent;     -   2. At least two members, selected from the group, consisting of:         -   i. a surface-active agent;         -   ii. a foam adjuvant; and         -   iii. a polymeric agent;     -   3. At least one solvent, selected from the group, consisting of:         -   i. water;         -   ii. a protic polar solvent; and         -   iii. a hydrophobic carrier;     -   and     -   4. A liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration         of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

According to one or more embodiments, the method comprises a waterless foamable carrier or composition with at least one of a surfactant, a polymer and a foam adjuvant. According to one or more other embodiments, the method comprises a substantially waterless foamable carrier or composition with at least one of a surfactant, a polymer and a foam adjuvant and up to about 5% water. According to one or other embodiments, the method comprises an aqueous carrier or composition with at least two of a surfactant, a polymer and a foam adjuvant.

According to one or more embodiments, the method comprises foamable carrier or composition, further comprises an active agent.

According to one or more embodiments, the method comprises pre-treating the target area with a foamable carrier or composition comprising an agent that can ameliorate or prevent a taste or odor being experienced after a DMSO foam is applied to a target. According to one or more other embodiments, the method comprises treating the target area with a foamable carrier or composition further comprising an agent that can ameliorate or prevent a taste or odor being experienced after a DMSO foam is applied to a target.

According to one or more embodiments the foamable composition, comprises a therapeutically effective concentration of an aprotic polar solvent, which possesses inherent therapeutic properties.

All % values herein are provided on a weight (w/w) basis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

FIG. 1 is a Table illustrating increase in skin hydration 4 hours after application of DMSO foamable carriers.

FIG. 2 is a color bar chart illustrating increase in skin hydration 4 hours after application of DMSO foamable carriers.

FIG. 3 is a color microscope picture of a foam produced from formulation D30 comprising DMSO and mineral oil.

FIG. 4 is a microscope picture at ×200 of a waterless DMSO foam sample from formulation D24 showing a single-phase homogeneous preparation free of crystals or agglomerations.

FIG. 5 is a Microscope picture at ×200 of an aqueous DMSO foam sample from formulation D33 showing a single-phase homogeneous preparation free of crystals or agglomerations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to one or more embodiments the present invention includes the embodiments described above in the Summary of the Invention as more particularly detailed, specified and exemplified below.

Aprotic Polar Solvent

Solvents can be broadly. classified into polar (hydrophilic) and nonpolar (lipophilic). The polarity can be measured as the dielectric constant or the dipole moment of a compound.

An aprotic solvent is an organic solvent that does not contain an O—H or N—H bond; or does not exchange protons with a substance dissolved in it. In the context herein, the aprotic polar solvent is a solvent with a comparatively high relative permittivity (or dielectric constant), greater than about 15, and a sizable permanent dipole moment, that cannot donate suitably labile hydrogen atoms to form strong hydrogen bonds; and it is miscible in water. Examples of aprotic polar solvents, suitable according to the present invention include, but are not limited to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), dimethylformamide (DMF), acetonitrile, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, 1,4-Dioxane and tetrahydrofuran (THF). Additional non-limiting examples include N-methylpyrrolidone, pyridine, piperidine, dimethyl ether, hexamethylphosphorotriamide, dimethylformamide, methyl dodecyl sulfoxide, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone and 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone) and azone (1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one).

An aprotic solvent can be a defoamer in certain embodiments. It can in certain embodiments act to accelerate the breakdown of the foam and reduce its stability. To an extent this may be countered by adding one or more agents that can stabilize the foam and boost its stability. For example, addition of a polymer and or a foam adjuvant can help to improve the collapse time and likewise slow liquid drainage driven by gravity, which otherwise can and will cause the walls of bubbles to thin and ultimately collapse into adjacent bubble walls that are likewise thinning to form larger bubbles. Examples 1 and 2 Indicate, for example, that DMSO is not prone to foaming.

DMSO

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is the chemical compound with the formula (CH₃)₂SO. This colorless liquid is an important aprotic polar solvent that dissolves both polar and nonpolar compounds and is miscible in a wide range of organic solvents as well as water. It has a distinctive property of penetrating the skin very readily, so that some people report that one can taste it soon after it comes into contact with the skin. In this connection, taking DMSO internally is reported to cause a fish- or oyster-like taste or odor in the mouth. With its high polarity combined with a high dielectric constant, DMSO is known to be an excellent solvent for polar or polarizable organic compounds, but also many acids, alkalis and mineral salts. DMSO is miscible with most co-solvents. The following table provides certain physical characteristics of DMSO and DMF.

DMSO DMF Dielectric constant (25° C.) 46.4 36.7 Polarity (Debye, 25° C.) 4.3 3.8 Boiling Point (° C.) 189 153 Flash point (closed cup, ° C.) 87 58

DMSO can penetrate the skin and other membranes without damaging them and could carry other compounds into a biological system. DMSO has been used most widely as a topical analgesic, in a 70% DMSO, 30% water solution. Laboratory studies suggest that DMSO reduces pain by blocking peripheral nerve C fibers. DMSO also is said to reduce inflammation by several mechanisms. It is further an antioxidant—a scavenger of the free radicals that gather at the site of injury. DMSO also stabilizes membranes and slows or stops leakage from injured cells and is recommended for many inflammatory conditions not caused by infection or tumor. Because DMSO increases the rate of absorption of some compounds through organic tissues including skin and nails, it can be used as a drug delivery system.

In one or more embodiments a method is provided to ameliorate or prevent possible side effects of DMSO such as a taste, which has been described as “garlicy” and a breath odor. As an initial observation although a high proportion of DMSO can be present in the formulations because they are presented as a low density foam it is possible to apply a much thinner layer and cover the same area with a substantially or much smaller amount than a cream or ointment. That being said the position can be further improved by first applying to the target area a composition containing one or more of urea, ethanol, and or lipophilic compounds and then subsequently applying the DMSO foam to the target area. The time interval between the first application and the second application can be about almost immediately afterwards, about 30 Secs afterwards, about 1 minute afterwards, about 2 minutes afterwards, about 5 minutes afterwards, about 10 minutes afterwards, about 20 minutes afterwards, about 30 minutes afterwards, about 40 minutes afterwards, about 50 minutes afterwards, about 60 minutes afterwards, or sometimes longer. In one or more embodiments the DMSO presented to the target area simultaneously with another foam containing one or more ingredients known to ameliorate or prevent the taste and odor by using a dual chamber device to apply the two foams such as is described in US publication 2007/0069046 entitled “MEASURE OF CONTENT FROM A PLURALITY OF CONTAINERS” and incorporated herein by reference. In an alternative approach the formulation may itself include one or more ingredients known to ameliorate or prevent the taste and odor.

Concentration

In an embodiment the aprotic polar solvent can be incorporated in the foamable composition of the present invention in a concentration between about 3% and about 98% or between about 10% and about 97%, for example above about 15%, above about 20%, above about 25%, above about 30%, above about 35%; above about; 40%, above about 45%, above about 50%, above about 55%, above about, 60%; above about 70%, above about 80%, above about 90%, or any range between any of the aforesaid amounts; and more preferably from about 10% to about 60% of at least one aprotic polar solvent.

In certain embodiments, the aprotic polar solvent is DMSO and its concentration is in the range between about 30% and about 60%. In an embodiment it is between about 40% to about 50%. In an embodiment, aprotic polar solvent is DMSO and its concentration is about 45%.

In other embodiments, the composition contains more than 60% aprotic polar solvent, and in certain cases, up to about 98% of at least one aprotic polar solvent.

In one or more embodiments where ever a phrase is used to refer to a concentration of above X % or below X % it can also include X % or of above about X % or below about X % it can also include about X %.

General

In one or more embodiments, the aprotic polar solvent is a combination of two or more aprotic solvents. In certain embodiments the main aprotic solvent is DMSO.

In one or more embodiments, the aprotic polar solvent is used in combination with a solid aprotic compound. Non limiting examples of solid aprotic compounds are octyl methyl sulfoxide, nonyl methyl sulfoxide, decyl methyl sulfoxide, undecyl methyl sulfoxide, and dodecyl methyl sulfoxide.

In one or more embodiments, the aprotic polar solvent is used in combination with a sulfoxide derivative which is not aprotic. Non limiting examples of non aprotic sulfoxide compounds having hydroxyl groups are 2-hydroxydecyl methyl sulfoxide, 2-hydroxyundecyl methyl sulfoxide and hydroxydodecyl methyl sulfoxide.

In one or more embodiments, formulations comprising DMSO can produce a quality foam with one or more surfactants without the addition of a polymer and or without the addition of a foam adjuvant. Aprotic solvents are not oil so which surfactants are preferred is not obvious. In one or more embodiments preferred surfactants or surfactant combinations include polyoxyethylene fatty acid ethers, polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polysorbates, sucrose esters, glycerides esters, sorbitol esters.

In one or more embodiments, formulations comprising DMSO can unexpectedly produce a quality foam without one or more surfactants. In one or more embodiments good quality waterless foams comprising DMSO can be achieved with a combination of a polymeric agent and a fatty alcohol. In an embodiment the fatty alcohol may be replaced by the fatty acid. In an embodiment a combination of fatty alcohol and fatty acid may be applied together with the polymeric agent.

In one or more embodiments good quality aqueous foams comprising DMSO can be achieved with a combination of a polymeric agent and a fatty alcohol. In one or more embodiments good quality aqueous foams comprising DMSO can be achieved with the addition of a short chain alcohol, such as ethanol, even in high concentrations.

By the term “aqueous” in relation to formulations herein it is intended to indicate and describe a multiplicity of formulations containing some water including formulations comprising low amounts, medium amounts or high amounts of water so as to apply a wide meaning to the term.

Foamable Composition and Foam Properties

The ability to achieve quality foam with substantial concentration of at least one aprotic polar solvent, is surprising, because usually, such solvents are not prone to create a foam. The challenge is not just to achieve a quality foam but also to attain a formulation that will satisfy a plurality of two, three, four, five, six or more of property specifications simultaneously.

-   -   1. Uniformity: The composition should be formulated so that it         is and can remain uniform without phase separation or         precipitation over time. This property is of high importance         when the product is intended to be a pharmaceutical product.     -   2. Flowability: The composition, when placed in an aerosol         container and pressurized should be flowable such that it can be         expelled through the canister valve. It should preferably also         be shakable inside the container. These requirements create a         formulation challenge, because low or non-viscous flowable and         shakable compositions are prone to undergo phase separation or         precipitation.     -   3. Quality: Upon release from the can, the composition should         generate a foam of about good or excellent quality having low         density and small bubble size.     -   4. Stability/Breakability: The fine balance between stability         and breakability of the foam coming out of the container is very         delicate: on one hand the foam should not be “quick breaking”,         i.e., it should be at least short term stable upon release from         the pressurized container and not break as a result of exposure         to skin temperature; and on the other hand, it should be         “breakable”, i.e., it should spread easily, break down and         absorb into the skin or membrane upon application of mild shear         force.     -   5. Skin Feeling: To ensure patient compliance the skin feeling         after application should be pleasant, and greasy or waxy         residues should be minimalized.     -   6. Non irritating: The above requirements should be achieved         with the awareness that formulation excipients, especially         surfactants, can be irritating, and should be used in low         concentrations.     -   7. Delivery: Finally, the composition should also be designed to         ensure efficient delivery of a therapeutic agent (other than the         aprotic polar solvent) into the target site of treatment.

Based on extensive investigations and trial and error experiments, it has been found that such properties can be achieved for formulations comprising water by incorporating into the composition at least two stabilizing members, and also for formulations that are substantially waterless by incorporating into the composition at least one stabilizing member selected from the group consisting of:

-   -   i. a surface-active agent;     -   ii. a foam adjuvant     -   iii. a polymeric agent         It has further been discovered that such properties can be         achieved for waterless formulations by incorporating into the         composition at least one stabilizing member, selected from the         group, consisting of:     -   i. a surface-active agent;     -   ii. a foam adjuvant     -   iii. a polymeric agent

The type, quality, properties and mechanism of foam formation for aprotic formulations cannot be predicted or deduced based on the literature or on existing product experience. The challenge to achieve such foam formulations may be even more pronounced when the aprotic polar solvent composition is waterless or substantially waterless.

As detailed and exemplified below, the aqueous or water containing compositions containing aprotic polar solvents, such as DMSO, conform with the desirable and favorable sensory properties of foam. They further deliver efficacious therapy, as exemplified herein.

As further detailed and exemplified below, even waterless or substantially waterless compositions, containing aprotic polar solvents, such as DMSO, provide favorable sensory properties of foam.

Surface Active Agent

The composition of the present invention contains a surface-active agent. Surface-active agents (also termed “emulsifiers” or “surfactants”) include any agent linking oil and water in the composition, in the form of emulsion. A surfactant's hydrophilic/lipophilic balance (HLB) describes the emulsifier's affinity toward water or oil. HLB is defined for non-ionic surfactants. The HLB scale ranges from 1 (totally lipophilic) to 20 (totally hydrophilic), with 10 representing an equal balance of both characteristics. The HLB of a blend of two emulsifiers equals the weight fraction of emulsifier. A times its HLB value plus the weight fraction of emulsifier B times its HLB value (weighted average). In many cases a single surfactant may suffice. In other cases a combination of two or more surfactants is desired. Reference to a surfactant in the specification can also apply to a combination of surfactants or a surfactant system. As will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art which surfactant or surfactant system is more appropriate is related to the vehicle and intended purpose. In general terms a combination of surfactants is usually preferable where the vehicle is an emulsion. In an emulsion environment a combination of surfactants can be significant in producing breakable foams of good quality. It has been further, discovered that the generally thought considerations for HLB values for selecting a surfactant or surfactant combination are not always binding for emulsions and that good quality foams can be produced with a surfactant or surfactant combination both where the HLB values are in or towards the lipophilic side of the scale and where the HLB values are in or towards the hydrophilic side of the scale. Surfactants also play a role in foam formation where the foamable formulation is a single phase composition.

According to one or more embodiments the composition contains a single surface active agent having an HLB value between about 2 and 9, or more than one surface active agent and the weighted average of their HLB values is between about 2 and about 9. Lower HLB values may in certain embodiments be more applicable, especially in compositions with low water content, or non-aqueous compositions.

According to one or more embodiments the composition contains a single surface active agent having an HLB value between about 7 and 14, or more than one surface active agent and the weighted average of their HLB values is between about 7 and about 14. Mid range HLB values may in certain embodiments be more suitable for oil in water emulsions.

According to one or more other embodiments the composition contains a single surface active agent having an HLB value between about 9 and 20, or more than one surface active agent and the weighted average of their HLB values is between about 9 and about 20.

In a waterless or substantially waterless environment a wide range of HLB values may be suitable; however, surfactants of the low range are sometimes preferred.

Preferably, the composition of the present invention contains a non-ionic surfactant. Nonlimiting examples of possible non-ionic surfactants include:

-   -   Polyoxyethylene sorbitan esters (polysorbates), such as         Polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate),         Polysorbate 40 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monopalmitate),         Polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan monostearate) and         Polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate).     -   Sorbitan esters, such as Span 20 (Sorbitan monolaurate), Span 40         (Sorbitan monopalmitate), Span 60 (Sorbitan monostearate), Span         65 (Sorbitan tristearate), Span 80 (Sorbitan monooleate).     -   Polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, such as, PEG-8 Stearate,         PEG-20 Stearate, PEG-40 Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, PEG-150         Distearate, PEG-8 laurate, PEG-10 laurate, PEG-12 laurate,         PEG-20 laurate, PEG-8 oleate, PEG-9 oleate, PEG-10 oleate,         PEG-12 oleate, PEG-15 oleate and PEG-20 oleate.     -   PEG-Fatty Acid Diesters, such as PEG-20 dilaurate, PEG-20         dioleate, PEG-20 distearate, PEG-32 dilaurate and PEG-32         dioleate.     -   Polyethylene glycol (PEG) ethers of fatty alcohols, e.g.,         Isoceteth-20, Laureth-4, Laureth-9, Laureth-23, Ceteth-2,         Ceteth-10, Ceteth-20, Steareth-2, Steareth-7, Steareth-10,         Steareth-20, Steareth-21, Steareth-100, Steareth-200, Oleth-2,         Oleth-3, Oleth-5, Oleth-10, Oleth-20, Ceteareth-6, Ceteareth-12,         Ceteareth-17, Ceteareth-20, Ceteareth-25, Ceteareth-50,         Ceteareth-80, Cetoleth-5, Cetoleth-10, Pareth-12, Pareth-23,         C12-13 Pareth-3, C12-13 Pareth-4.     -   Glycerol esters, such as glyceryl monostearate, glyceryl         monolaurate, glyceryl monopalmitate and glyceryl monooleate         PEG-fatty Acid Mono- and di-ester Mixtures—several PEG-fatty         acid esters are marketed commercially as mixtures or mono- and         diesters.     -   Polyethylene Glycol Glycerol Fatty Acid Esters, such as PEG-7         Glyceryl Cocoate, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, PEG-20 Almond         Glycerides, PEG-12 glyceryl laurate, PEG-20 glyceryl laurate,         PEG-30 glyceryl laurate, PEG-40 glyceryl laurate, PEG-20         glyceryl oleate, and PEG-30 glyceryl oleate.     -   Alcohol-Oil Transesterification Products such as PEG-5         hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-6 almond oil, PEG-6 caprylic/capric         glycerides, PEG-6 peanut oil, PEG-6 corn oil, PEG-6 apricot         kernel oil, PEG-6 triolein, PEG-7 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-8         caprylic/capric glycerides, PEG-8 corn oil, PEG-9 hydrogenated         castor oil, PEG-20 corn glycerides, PEG-20 almond glycerides,         PEG-25 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-25 trioleate, PEG-35 castor         oil, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-60 corn glycerides,         PEG-60 almond oil, PEG-40 palm kernel oil, PEG-50 castor oil,         PEG-50 hydrogenated castor oil. Also included as oils in this         category of surfactants are oil-soluble vitamins, such as         vitamins A, D, E, K, act. Thus, derivatives of these vitamins,         such as tocopheryl PEG-100 succinate, are also suitable         surfactants.     -   Polyglycerized Fatty Acids, such as polyglyceryl oleate,         polyglyceryl-2 dioleate, and polyglyceryl-10 trioleate         (hydrophobic); and polyglyceryl-10 laurate, polyglyceryl-10         oleate, and polyglyceryl-10 mono, dioleate (hydrophilic).         Polyglyceryl polyricinoleates are also preferred hydrophilic and         hydrophobic surfactants.     -   Propylene glycol fatty acid esters, such as propylene glycol         monolaurate, propylene glycol ricinoleate, propylene glycol         monooleate, propylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate and propylene         glycol dioctanoate.     -   Mono- and diglycerides, such as glyceryl monooleate, glyceryl         ricinoleate, glyceryl laurate, glyceryl dilaurate, glyceryl         dioleate, glyceryl mono/dioleate, glyceryl caprylate/caprate,         caprylic acid mono/diglycerides, and mono- and diacetylated         monoglycerides.     -   Sterol and sterol derivatives, such as PEG-24 cholesterol ether.     -   Sugar esters (mono-, di- and tri-esters of sucrose with fatty         acids), such as sucrose monopalmitate and sucrose monolaurate.     -   Polyethylene glycol alkyl phenols         The following table provides by examples the HLB values of         various non-ionic surfactants, sorted by HLB from lowest         (hydrophobic) to highest (hydrophilic).

Glycol Distearate HLB = 1 PEG-7 Olivate HLB = 11 Sorbitan Trioleate HLB = 1.8 Cetearyl Glucoside HLB = 11 Propylene Glycol Isostearate HLB = 2.5 PEG-8 Oleate HLB = 11.6 Glycol Stearate HLB = 2.9 Polyglyceryl-3 Methyglucose Distearate HLB = Sorbitan Sesquioleate HLB = 3.7 12 Glyceryl Stearate HLB = 3.8 Oleth-10 HLB = 12.4 Lecithin HLB = 4 Oleth-10/Polyoxyl 10 Oleyl Ether NF HLB = Sorbitan Oleate HLB = 4.3 12.4 Sorbitan Monostearate NF HLB = 4.7 Ceteth-10 HLB = 12.9 Sorbitan Stearate HLB = 4.7 PEG-8 Laurate HLB = 13 Sorbitan Isostearate HLB = 4.7 Cocamide MEA HLB = 13.5 Steareth-2 HLB = 4.9 Polysorbate 60 HLB = 14.9 Oleth-2 HLB = 4.9 Polysorbate 80 HLB = 15 Glyceryl Laurate HLB = 5.2 Isosteareth-20 HLB = 15 Ceteth-2 HLB = 5.3 PEG-60 Almond Glycerides HLB = 15 PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate HLB = 5.5 Polysorbate 80 HLB = 15 Glyceryl Stearate SE HLB = 5.8 PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate HLB = PEG-4 Dilaurate HLB = 6 15 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate HLB = 6.6 Ceteareth-20 HLB = 15.2 Sorbitan Laurate HLB = 8.6 Oleth-20 HLB = 15.3 PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate HLB = 9 Steareth-20 HLB = 15.3 Laureth-4 HLB = 9.7 Steareth-21 HLB = 15.5 PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate HLB = 10 Ceteth-20 HLB = 15.7 PEG-20 Almond Glycerides HLB = 10 Isoceteth-20 HLB = 15.7 PEG-25 Hydrogenated Castor Oil HLB = Polysorbate 20 HLB = 16.7 10.8 Laureth-23 HLB = 16.9 Stearamide MEA HLB = 11 PEG-100 Stearate HLB = 18.8 Polysorbate 85 HLB = 11 Steareth-100 HLB = 18.8 PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate HLB = 19.1

In one or more embodiments of the composition comprises water and a single stabilizing member, which is at least one surface active agent. In such embodiments the at least one surface active agent is non ionic and can comprise a solid (for example ceteth −20) or liquid surfactant (for example Tween 80) with a HLB between about 9 and about 16. As can be seen from the results in Example 8 in which a non ionic surfactant alone with a HLB between about 9-16 provides a better foam quality and stability than a non ionic surfactant alone with a HLB value lower than about 9 or higher than about 16. However, in order to improve stability and collapse time the aqueous formulations comprise a second stabilizing member, which can be an appropriate polymeric agent (such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) and or an appropriate foam adjuvant (such as cetostearyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, stearic acid and isostearic acid) or a polymeric agent, which has surfactant properties such as a poloxamer. In certain embodiments a combination of at least two stabilizing members is a synergistic combination, such as observed in Example 9. Also by providing two or more stabilizing members it can allow a wider range of agents and or a broader range of HLB. In one or more other embodiments the formulation comprises a hydrophobic or lipophilic component and the formulation prior to addition of the propellant is an emulsion. In such embodiments the surface active agent has a role in stabilizing the emulsion and a role in generating a stable breakable foam. Furthermore a system has to be selected such that upon addition of the propellant the emulsion is not destabilized. The emulsion can be an oil in water emulsion or if an appropriate surfactant is used such as the following non limiting examples of glyceryl stearate, sorbitan stearate, polyglyceryl oleate or other surfactants with an HLB value lower than about 9, a water in oil emulsion may be formed.

In one or more embodiments the composition is a waterless composition and a single stabilizing member. The stabilizing member can be at least one polymeric agent, at least one foam adjuvant or at least one surface active agent. In such embodiments the at least one surface active agent is non ionic and can comprise a solid surface active agent, which is a solid ambient temperature. In one preferred embodiment the surfactant generally comprises a linear molecule with a more polar head, for example sorbitan monostearate and or glyceryl monostearate. It has been observed, for example, that when a surfactant with a non linear unsaturated fatty acid chain is used, such as sorbitan monoleate, only a bubbly liquid is achieved (See Example 3). This incidentally is in contrast to the position with an aqueous system where for example Tween 80 has been used successfully although it has an oleate moiety. In another preferred embodiment, in the context of a waterless composition, the surfactant has a low HLB value, being between about 2 and about 9. In certain embodiments, the HLB of the solid surface active agent is between about 2 and about 5. It has been surprisingly discovered that a solid surface active agent, having low HLB provides a foam with better quality and stability than a liquid and/or a high HLB surfactant. It has been further surprisingly discovered that a solid surface active agent, having low HLB evolves a breakable foam of quality, even without any additional foam stabilizing agents (such as a polymer or a foam adjuvant).

In one or more embodiments the surface active agent is a combination of two or more surface active agents. Such a combination may be in certain cases more effective than a single surfactant and provides a more stable emulsion or improved foam quality. For example and by way of non-limiting explanation it has been found that by choosing two surfactants, one hydrophobic and the other hydrophilic the combination can produce a more stable emulsion than a single surfactant. In certain embodiments the combination is a synergistic combination. In one or more embodiments the difference in the HLB of two surfactants is about at least 2, or is about at least 3, or is about at least 4.

In one or more embodiments the surfactant can be, a surfactant system comprising of a surfactant and a co surfactant, a waxy emulsifier, a liquid crystal emulsifier, an emulsifier which s solid or semi solid at room temperature and pressure, or combinations of two or more agents in an appropriate proportion as will be appreciated a person skilled in the art. Where a solid or semi solid emulsifier combination is used it can also comprise a solid or semi solid emulsifier and a liquid emulsifier.

In one or more embodiments the surface-active agent includes at least one non-ionic surfactant. Ionic surfactants are known to be irritants. Therefore, non-ionic surfactants are preferred in applications including sensitive tissue such as found in most mucosal tissues, especially when they are infected or inflamed. We have surprisingly found that non-ionic surfactants alone can provide formulations and foams of good or excellent quality in the carriers and compositions disclosed herein.

Yet, in certain embodiments, the foamable composition includes a mixture of at least one non-ionic surfactant and at least one ionic surfactant, selected from the group of anionic, cationic, zwitterionic, amphoteric and ampholytic surfactants, in a ratio in the range of about 100:1 to 6:1. In one or more embodiments, the non-ionic to ionic surfactant ratio is greater than about 6:1, or greater than about 8:1; or greater than about 14:1, or greater than about 16:1, or greater than about 20:1. In further embodiments, surface active agent comprises a combination of a non-ionic surfactant and an ionic surfactant, at a ratio of between 1:1 and 20:1.

In selecting a suitable surfactant or combination thereof it should be borne in mind that the upper amount of surfactant that can be used may be limited by the shakability of the composition. In general terms, as the amount of non liquid surfactant is increased the shakability of the formulation reduces until a limitation point is reached where the formulation becomes non shakable and unsuitable. Thus in an embodiment any effective amount of surfactant may be used provided the formulation remains shakable. In other certain exceptional embodiments the upper limit may be determined by flowability such as in circumstances where the composition is marginally or apparently non shakable. Thus in an embodiment any effective amount of surfactant may be used provided the formulation remains flowable.

In certain embodiments the amount of surfactant or combination of surfactants is between about 0.05% to about 20%; between about 0.05% to about 15%; or between about 0.05% to about 10%. In a preferred embodiment the concentration of surface active agent is between about 0.2% and about 8%. In a more preferred embodiment the concentration of surface active agent is between about 1% and about 6%. In certain embodiments by comprising a second or a second and a third stabilizing member it is possible to minimize the amount of surfactant used in the formulation, for example such that the surface active agent is between about 0.5% and about 3%.

If the composition as formulated is a substantially non shakable composition it is nevertheless possible as an exception in the scope disclosed herein for the formulation to be flowable to a sufficient degree to be able to flow through an actuator valve and be released and still expand to form a good quality foam. This surprising and unusual exception may be due one or more of a number of factors such as the high viscosity, the softness, the lack of crystals, the pseudoplastic or semi pseudo plastic nature of the composition and the dissolution of the propellant into the formulation.

Foam Adjuvant

In one or more embodiments the foamable vehicle further includes a foam adjuvant. More particularly the foam adjuvant is preferably a fatty acid or a fatty alcohol. Foam adjuvants, as defined herein are also useful in facilitating improved spreadability and absorption of the composition.

In one or more embodiments the foam adjuvant includes fatty alcohols having 15 or more carbons in their carbon chain, such as cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol (or mixtures thereof). Other examples of fatty alcohols are arachidyl alcohol (C20), behenyl alcohol (C22), 1-triacontanol (C30), as well as alcohols with longer carbon chains (up to C50).

In one or more embodiments the foam adjuvant includes fatty acids having 16 or more carbons in their carbon chain, such as hexadecanoic acid (C16) stearic acid (C18), arachidic acid (C20), behenic acid (C22), octacosanoic acid (C28), as well as fatty acids with longer carbon chains (up to C50), or mixtures thereof. As for fatty alcohols, the amount of fatty acids required to support the foam system is inversely related to the length of its carbon chain.

In one or more embodiments, a combination of a fatty acid and a fatty alcohol is employed.

Optionally, the carbon atom chain of the fatty alcohol or the fatty acid may have at least one double bond. A further class of foam adjuvant includes a branched fatty alcohol or fatty acid. The carbon chain of the fatty acid or fatty alcohol also can be substituted with a hydroxyl group, such as 12-hydroxy stearic acid.

An important property of the fatty alcohols and fatty acids used in context of the composition disclosed herein is related to their therapeutic properties per se. Long chain saturated and mono unsaturated fatty alcohols, e.g., stearyl alcohol, erucyl alcohol, arachidyl alcohol and behenyl alcohol (docosanol) have been reported to possess antiviral, antiinfective, antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory properties (see, U.S. Pat. No. 4,874,794). Longer chain fatty alcohols, e.g., tetracosanol, hexacosanol, heptacosanol, octacosanol, triacontanol, etc., are also known for their metabolism modifying properties and tissue energizing properties. Long chain fatty acids have also been reported to possess anti-infective characteristics.

In one or more embodiments, a combination of a foam adjuvant and a polymeric agent is employed. In certain embodiments the combination is synergistic, for example as observed in Example 5 Part B, where stearyl alcohol and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose were noted to have a synergistic effect.

In one or more embodiments, a combination of a foam adjuvant and a surface active agent is employed.

In one or more embodiments, a combination of a foam adjuvant and a polymeric agent is employed.

In one or more embodiments, a combination of a foam adjuvant, a polymeric agent and a surface active agent is employed.

Polymeric Agent

In one or more embodiments, the composition disclosed herein contains a polymeric agent selected from the group consisting of a bioadhesive agent, a gelling agent, a film forming agent and a phase change agent. A polymeric agent enhances the creation of foam having fine bubble structure, which does not readily collapse upon release from the pressurized aerosol can. The polymeric agent serves to stabilize the foam composition and to control drug residence in the target organ. In certain embodiments the polymer can have surfactant like properties and contribute to the stabilization of emulsion formulations, such as poloxamer or pemulen.

Exemplary polymeric agents include, in a non-limiting manner, naturally-occurring polymeric materials, such as locust bean gum, sodium alginate, sodium caseinate, egg albumin, gelatin agar, carrageenin gum, sodium alginate, xanthan gum, quince seed extract, tragacanth gum, guar gum, cationic guars, hydroxypropyl guar gum, starch, amine-bearing polymers such as chitosan; acidic polymers obtainable from natural sources, such as alginic acid and hyaluronic acid; chemically modified starches and the like, carboxyvinyl polymers, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid polymers, polymethacrylic acid polymers, polyvinyl acetate polymers, polyvinyl chloride polymers, polyvinylidene chloride polymers and the like.

Additional exemplary polymeric agents include semi-synthetic polymeric materials such as cellulose ethers, such as methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxy propylmethyl cellulose, methylhydroxyethylcellulose, methylhydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxyethylcarboxymethylcellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose, and cationic celluloses, carbomer (homopolymer of acrylic acid is crosslinked with an allyl ether pentaerythritol, an allyl ether of sucrose, or an allyl ether of propylene, such as Carbopol® 934, Carbopol® 940, Carbopo® 941, Carbopol® 980 and Carbopol® 981. Poloxamers (synthetic block copolymer of ethylene oxide and propylene) such as Poloxamer 124, Poloxamer 188, Poloxamer 237, Poloxamer 338 and Poloxamer 407. Other useful Poloxamers are: 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 212, 215, 217, 231, 234, 235, 238, 331, 333, 334, 335; 401, 402, and 403. Polyethylene glycol, having molecular-weight of 1000 or more (e.g., PEG 1,000, PEG 4,000, PEG 6,000 and PEG 10,000) also have gelling capacity and they are also considered polymeric agents.

In one or more embodiments the polymer is hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, for example where the formulation is waterless and a single stabilizing member is utilized, the polymeric agent comprises hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose.

Mixtures of the above polymeric agents are contemplated.

In one or more embodiments the polymer is used in combination with another stabilizing member, which can be a surfactant and or a foam adjuvant.

The concentration of the polymeric agent should be selected so that the composition, after filling into aerosol canisters and pressurized with propellant, is flowable, and can be shaken in the canister. In one or more embodiments, the concentration of the polymeric agent is selected such that the viscosity of the composition, prior to filling of the composition into aerosol canisters, is less than about 30,000 CP, and more preferably, less than about 15,000 CP. In one or more embodiments, the viscosity of the composition, prior to filling of the composition into aerosol canisters, is less than about 10,000 CP, or less than about 5,000 CP, or less than about 3b000 CP.

Combination of a Foam Adjuvant and a Polymeric Agent

Interestingly, when a foam adjuvant (e.g., stearyl alcohol) alone or a polymeric agent (e.g., hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) alone is used with DMSO, a foam of good quality is obtained, but it quickly collapses upon exposure to 36° C. (collapse time 10 and 30 sec respectively), as shown in formulations D21 and D07. However, surprisingly, when these two components are combined with DMSO, they act synergistically to produce a good quality foam with a collapse time of 120 seconds as shown in formulation D22 (See Example 5 Part B).

Optional Organic Carriers

Optionally, the foamable composition further includes at least one organic carrier selected from the group consisting of a hydrophobic organic carrier, a petrolatum, an organic protic polar solvent, and mixtures thereof, at a concentration of about 2% to about 50% by weight.

Hydrophobic Solvent/Emollient

One or more hydrophobic solvents are optionally included in the composition, in order to add to the sensory properties of the composition and/or in order to impart skin conditioning properties. In an embodiment, the hydrophobic solvent is an emollient, i.e., a substance that softens and soothes the skin. Emollients are used to correct dryness and scaling of the skin. The hydrophobic solvent and/or the emollient can be selected from the group consisting of mineral oil, alkyl esters of fatty acids such as isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl isostearate, diisopropyl adipate, diisopropyl dimerate, octyl palmitate, cetyl lactate, cetyl ricinoleate, tocopheryl acetate, acetylated lanolin alcohol, cetyl acetate, phenyl trimethicone, glyceryl oleate, tocopheryl linoleate, wheat germ glycerides, arachidyl propionate, myristyl lactate, decyl oleate, ricinoleate, isopropyl lanolate, pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, neopentylglycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, isononyl isononanoate, isotridecyl isononanoate, myristyl myristate, triisocetyl citrate, octyl dodecanol, maleated soybean oil, unsaturated or polyunsaturated oils, such as olive oil, corn oil, soybean oil, canola oil, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, borage seed oil, syzigium aromaticum oil, hempseed oil, herring oil, cod-liver oil, salmon oil, flaxseed oil, wheat germ oil, evening primrose oils; essential oils; and silicone oils, such as dimethicone, cyclomethicone, polyalkyl siloxane, polyaryl siloxane, polyalkylaryl siloxane, a polyether siloxane copolymer and a poly(dimethylsiloxane)-(diphenyl-siloxane) copolymer. In certain embodiments the carrier is a petrolatum.

While the aprotic polar solvent and water are generally miscible, when a hydrophobic carrier is included to the composition, it is necessary to create an emulsion between the water/aprotic polar solvent mixture and the hydrophobic carrier. Even when the composition is waterless, the hydrophobic carrier is typically insoluble in the aprotic solvent, and therefore it is necessary to create an emulsion between the aprotic polar solvent and the hydrophobic carrier.

Protic Polar Solvent

A “protic polar solvent” is an organic solvent that has a hydrogen atom bound to an oxygen as in a hydroxyl group or a nitrogen as in an amine group. They are typically soluble in both water and oil.

In one or more embodiments, the formulation can comprise a protic polar solvent.

In one or more embodiments, the protic polar solvent is a polyol. Polyols are organic substances that contain at least two hydroxy groups in their molecular structure.

In one or more embodiments, the protic polar solvent contains an diol (a compound that contains two hydroxy groups in its molecular structure), such as propylene glycol (e.g., 1,2-propylene glycol and 1,3-propylene glycol), butanediol. (e.g., 1,4-butanediol), butanediol (e.g., 1,3-butaneediol and 1,4-butenediol), butynediol, pentanediol (e.g., 1,5-pentanediol), hexanediol (e.g., 1,6-hexanediol), octanediol (e.g., 1,8-octanediol), neopentyl glycol, 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol and dibutylene glycol.

In one or more embodiments, the polar solvent contains a triol (a compound that contains three hydroxy groups in its molecular structure), such as glycerin and 1,2,6-Hexanetriol.

Additional examples of protic polar solvents include polyols, such as glycerol (glycerin), propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol n-alkanols, terpenes, di-terpenes, tri-terpenes, terpen-ols, limonene, terpene-ol, 1-menthol, dioxolane, ethylene glycol, other glycols, alkanols, such as dialkylamino acetates, and admixtures thereof. dimethyl isosorbide, ethyl proxitol, dimethylacetamide (DMAc) and alpha hydroxy acids, such as lactic acid and glycolic acid.

According to still other embodiments, the polar solvent is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) or PEG derivative that is liquid at ambient temperature, including PEG200 (MW (molecular weight) about 190-210 kD), PEG300 (MW about 285-315 kD), PEG400 (MW about 380-420 kD), PEG600 (MW about 570-630 kD) and higher MW PEGs such as PEG 4000, PEG 6000 and PEG 10000 and mixtures thereof.

Lower molecular weight alcohols can sometimes be more potent as a solvent, for example by extracting lipids from the skin layers more effectively, which characteristic can adversely affect the skin structure and cause dryness and irritation. So where a lower molecular weight alcohol is used in a formulation other ingredients are ideally selected to ameliorate or prevent such side effects.

Many polar solvents, for example propylene glycol and glycerin, possess the beneficial property of a humectant.

In one or more embodiments, the polar solvent is a humectant.

Additional Components

In an embodiment, a composition disclosed herein includes one or more additional components. Such additional components include but are not limited to anti oxidants anti perspirants, anti-static agents, buffering agents, bulking agents, chelating agents, cleansers, colorants, conditioners, deodorants, diluents, dyes, emollients, fragrances, hair conditioners, herbal extracts, humectants, keratolytic agents, pearlescent aids, perfuming agents, permeation enhancers, pH-adjusting agents, preservatives, protectants, skin penetration enhancers, softeners, solubilizers, sunscreens, sun blocking agents, sunless tanning agents, viscosity modifiers, flavonoids and vitamins. As is known to one skilled in the art, in some instances a specific additional component may have more than one activity, function or effect.

Propellants

The composition of the present invention requires the addition of a propellant in order to generate a foam. In one or more embodiments the propellant makes up between about 3% and about 45% or between about 3% and about 35% of the foamable composition, preferably between about 5% and about 25% of the composition. In preparing the formulations the ingredients other than propellant are combined to 100% and the propellant is added thereafter so that the ratio of formulation to propellant can range from 100:3 to 100:45 or from 100:3 to 100:35 or preferably 100:5 to 100:25. In the case of bag in can where the propellant is separate from the composition any amount can be used that is sufficient to drive the contents of the bag out of the canister. In certain embodiments the propellant in the bag can be the same as and in certain other embodiments be different from the propellant in the composition.

Suitable propellants include volatile hydrocarbons such as butane, propane, isobutene or mixtures thereof. In one or more embodiments a hydrocarbon mixture AP-70 is used. Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) propellants are also suitable as propellants in the context disclosed herein. Exemplary HFC propellants include 1,1,1,2 tetrafluorethane (Dymel 134), and 1,1,1,2,3,3,3 heptafluoropropane (Dymel 227). Dimethyl ether is also useful. In one or more embodiments use of compressed gases (e.g., air, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and nitrogen) is also possible. Chloro fluorocarbon propellants on the other hand are no longer considered suitable for use in cosmetic, pharmaceutical and other formulations due to inter alia the potential environmental damage that they can do.

In one or more embodiments a combination of at least two propellants, selected from HFC, hydrocarbon propellants, dimethyl ether and compressed gases is contemplated.

In one or more embodiments the propellant can also be used to expel formulation using a bag in can system or a can in can system as will be appreciated by someone skilled in the art. In certain embodiments the part of the propellant system is in the formulation and part separate from the formulation. In this way it is possible to reduce the amount of surfactant in the formulation but still provide good expulsion from the canister, where the foamable formulation is expelled quickly but without jetting or noise.

Alcohol Free

According to one or more embodiments, the foamable composition is substantially alcohol-free, i.e., free of short chain alcohols. Short chain alcohols, having up to 5 carbon atoms in their carbon chain skeleton and one hydroxyl group, such as ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, iso-butanol, t-butanol and pentanol, are considered less desirable solvents or polar solvents due to their skin-irritating effect. Thus, the composition is substantially alcohol-free and includes less than about 5% final concentration of lower alcohols, preferably less than about 2%, more preferably less than about 1%.

Alcoholic

According to one or more certain other embodiments, the foamable composition includes a short chain alcohol. In a preferred embodiment the short chain alcohol is ethanol. In one embodiment the composition is waterless. In another embodiment it is aqueous or water containing and in a further embodiment it is substantially non-aqueous. In various embodiments the amount of short chain alcohol is about or above about 5%, about or above about 10%; about or above about 15% about or above about 20%. In one or more embodiments the range of short chain alcohol is between about 5% to about 25%. In certain embodiments when short chain alcohol is present the formulation is breakable and not thermolabile or substantially not thermolabile. By substantially not thermolabile is meant that the foam upon expulsion onto a warm body surface at about 35-37° C. does not collapse rapidly within about 30 seconds. In one or more alternative embodiments the formulation is thermolabile.

In one or more alternative embodiments the formulation comprises high amounts of short chain alcohol. In certain embodiments the amount of short chain alcohol is about or above about 25%, is about or above about 30%, is about or above about 35%, is about or above about 40%; is about or above about 45%, is about or above about 50%; is about or above about 55% or is about or above about 60%.

In one or more embodiments there is provided a composition comprising an aprotic polar solvent and a protic polar solvent, in which the protic polar solvent can be a short chain alcohol. Such a combination may conceivably contribute to directed skin delivery of active agents.

Aprotic-Aqueous Formulations

In certain cases, the active agent is soluble in the presence of water, and therefore, in such cases the presence of water in the composition can be desirable. In certain preferred embodiments, the composition comprises only a small amount of water. In other embodiments water is a substantial component. In one or more embodiments the range of water can be from about 0.1% to about 5%, or from about 5% to about 15%, or from about 15% to about 25%, or from about 25% to about 35%, or from about 35% to about 45%, or from about 45% to about 55%, or from about 56% to about 65%, or from about 55% to about 65%, or from about 65% to about 75%, or from about 75% to about 85% or from about 5% to about 85%, or from about 10% to about 75%. In one or more embodiments the formulation can be a protic-hydroalcoholic.

Waterless Formulations

In certain cases, the active agent degrades in the presence of water, and therefore, in such cases the presence of water in the composition is not desirable. Thus, in certain preferred embodiments, the composition is substantially non-aqueous. The term “substantially non-aqueous” or “substantially waterless” is intended to indicate that the composition has water content below about 5%, preferably below about 2%, such as below about 1.5%. In certain other preferred embodiments the composition is non aqueous or waterless.

By non aqueous or waterless is meant that the composition contains no or substantially no, free or unassociated or absorbed water. It will be understood by a person of the art that the waterless solvents and substances miscible with them disclosed herein can be hydrophilic and can contain water in an associated or entrapped or absorbed form and may absorb water from the atmosphere and the ability to do so is its hygroscopic water capacity. It is intended that essentially non-aqueous formulations are included within its scope such that the formulations may have present a small amount of water. In some embodiments the composition ingredients are pretreated to reduce, remove or eliminate any residual or associated or absorbed water.

Modulating Agent

In one or more embodiments the formulation includes a modulating agent, The term modulating agent is used to describe an agent which can improve the stability of or stabilize a foamable carrier or composition and or an active agent by modulating the effect of a substance or residue present in the carrier or composition.

In one or more embodiments the substance or residue may for example be acidic, basic or a buffer system and potentially alter an artificial pH in a waterless or substantially non-aqueous environment or it may be one or more metal ions which may act as a potential catalyst in a waterless or substantially non aqueous environment. In various certain embodiments it may be an ionization agent or an anti oxidization agent or a flavinoid or mixtures thereof that are effective in a waterless or substantially non aqueous environment. The modulating agent may in one or more embodiments act to modulate the ionic or polar characteristics and any acid-base balance of a waterless or substantially non-aqueous carrier, composition, foamable carrier or foamable composition or resultant foam disclosed herein.

In one or more other embodiments the modulating agent is used to describe an agent which can affect pH in an aqueous solution. The agent can be any of the known buffering systems used in pharmaceutical or cosmetic formulations as would be appreciated by a man of the art. It can also be an organic acid, a carboxylic acid, a fatty acid an amino acid, an aromatic acid, an alpha or beta hydroxyl acid an organic base or a nitrogen containing compound.

In certain embodiments the substance or residue may be one or more metal ions which may act as a potential catalyst in a aqueous environment. In various certain embodiments it may be an ionization agent or an anti oxidization agent or a flavonoid or mixtures thereof that are effective in an aqueous environment. The modulating agent may in one or more embodiments act to modulate the ionic or polar characteristics and any acid-base balance of an aqueous carrier, composition, foamable carrier or foamable composition or resultant foam disclosed herein.

In certain embodiments the formulation is an emulsion. The emulsion may be formed prior to the addition of propellant or upon the introduction of propellant. The emulsion may be a waterless emulsion or it may be an aqueous emulsion (oil in water or oil in water). In various certain embodiments the substance or residue may for example be acidic or basic and potentially alter pH in an emulsion environment or it may be one or more metal ions which may act as a potential catalyst in an emulsion environment. In various certain embodiments it may be an ionization agent or an anti oxidization agent or a flavonoid or mixtures thereof that are effective in an emulsion environment. The modulating agent may in one or more embodiments act to modulate the ionic or polar characteristics and any acid-base balance of an emulsion carrier, composition, foamable carrier or foamable composition or resultant foam disclosed herein.

In one or more further embodiments the modulating agent is a chelating or sequestering or complexing agent that is sufficiently soluble or functional in the solvent to enable it to “mop up” or “lock” metal ions. In one or more embodiments a preferred non limiting example is EDTA.

In other embodiments the modulating agent is a buffer, as defined by Van Slyke [Van Slyke, J. Biol. Chem. 52, 525 (1922)], as “a substance which by its presence in solution increases the amount of acid or alkali that must be added to cause unit change in pH.”

Modulating agents may be added to the compositions of the subject invention, preferably from about 0.1% to about 10%, more preferably from about 1% to about 5%, of the composition. Where the active agent itself is the modulating agent alone or in combination with another modulating agent it will be added at an effective dose which may be outside these ranges. For example azelaic acid may be at about 15% of the composition.

It is important to maintain skin surface pH in order to prevent susceptibility to bacterial skin infections or skin damage and disease. Thus, adding a modulating agent, which contributes to the stabilization of skin pH at the desirable level, is advantageous.

In the same fashion, adding an acidic modulating agent to a foamable composition, which is intended for vaginal application is advantageous, since better protection against vaginal infection is attained with pH lower than about 4.5.

Non-limiting examples of antioxidants/radical scavengers are ascorbic acid and derivatives, tocopherol or derivatives thereof (succinate, or sorbate or acetate or other esters), propyl galate, butylated hydroxy toluene and butyl hydroxy anisol. Non-limiting examples of positive ionization agents are benzyl conium chloride, and cetyl pyridium chloride. Non-limiting examples of negative ionization agents are sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl lactylate and phospholipids.

A non-limiting list of flavonoid compounds is: benzquercin, diosmin, ethoxazorutoside, flavodate, sodium hesperidin, leucocianido, monoxerutin, oxerutin, quercetin, rutoside, rosmarinic acid.

In one or more embodiments the modulating agent is mixture or combination of two or more modulating agents.

Composition and Foam Physical Characteristics and Advantages

A pharmaceutical or cosmetic composition manufactured using the foamable carrier is very easy to use. When applied onto the afflicted body surface of mammals, i.e., humans or animals, it is in a foam state, allowing free application without spillage. Upon further application of a mechanical force, e.g., by rubbing the composition onto the body surface, it freely spreads on the surface and is rapidly absorbed.

In one or more embodiments the foamable composition has an acceptable shelf-life of at least six months or at least one year, or preferably, at least two years at ambient temperature.

The foamable compositions according to the present invention are stable chemically and physically. For example as seen in Example 14 following accelerated stability studies, the foam met the specified stability and assay criteria. The high quality foams disclosed herein can demonstrate desirable texture; can form fine bubble structures that do not break immediately upon contact with a surface, and can spread easily on the treated area and can absorb quickly.

The composition should also preferably be free flowing, to allow it to flow through the aperture of the container, e.g., and aerosol container, and create an acceptable foam.

Foam Quality

Foam quality can be graded as follows:

Grade E (excellent): very rich and creamy in appearance, does. not show any bubble structure or shows a very fine (small) bubble structure; does not rapidly become dull; upon spreading on the skin, the foam retains the creaminess property and does not appear watery.

Grade G (good): rich and creamy in appearance, very small bubble size, “dulls” more rapidly than an excellent foam, retains creaminess upon spreading on the skin, and does not become watery.

Grade FG (fairly good): a moderate amount of creaminess noticeable, bubble structure is noticeable; upon spreading on the skin the product dulls rapidly, and becomes somewhat lower in apparent viscosity.

Grade F (fair): very little creaminess noticeable, larger bubble structure than a “fairly good” foam, upon spreading on the skin it becomes thin in appearance and watery.

Grade P (poor): no creaminess noticeable, large bubble structure, and when spread on the skin it becomes very thin and watery in appearance.

Grade VP (very poor): dry foam, large very dull bubbles, difficult to spread on the skin.

Topically administrable foams are typically of quality grade E or G, when released from the aerosol container. Smaller bubbles are indicative of more stable foam, which does not collapse spontaneously immediately upon discharge from the container. The finer foam structure looks and feels smoother, thus increasing its usability and appeal.

Breakability

A further aspect of the foam is breakability. The balance between stability and breakability of the foam coming out of the container is very delicate: on one hand the foam should not be “quick breaking”, i.e., it should be stable upon release from the pressurized container and not break as a result of exposure to skin temperature; and on the other hand, it should be “breakable”, i.e., it should spread easily, break down and absorb into the skin or membrane upon application of mild shear force. The foam is thermally stable, yet breaks under shear force. Shear-force breakability of the foam is dearly advantageous over thermally induced breakability. Thermally sensitive foams immediately or quickly collapse upon exposure to skin temperature and, therefore, cannot be usefully applied on the hand and afterwards delivered to the afflicted area since transfer would have to be effected immediately.

Breakable foam is a specialized low density type of foam that is stable on release at least in the short time span of about minutes, but can break readily upon the application of shear force such as gentle rubbing to spread easily over a target surface. Unlike other types of foams, breakable foam is not thermolabile, nor does it display late or long-delayed expansion over minutes.

Foam Density

Another property of the foam is density (specific gravity), as measured upon release from the aerosol can. Typically, foams have specific gravity of about 0.20 g/mL or less, such as less than about 0.20 g/mL; or less than about 0.12 g/mL; or less than about 0.10 g/mL; or less than about 0.08 g/mL, depending on their composition and on the propellant concentration.

Shakability

‘Shakability’ means that the composition contains some or sufficient flow to allow the composition to be mixed or remixed on shaking. That is, it has fluid or semi fluid properties. Shakability is described further in the section on Tests.

Collapse Time

The collapse time of foam represents its tendency to be temperature-sensitive and its ability to be at least short term stable so as to allow a user sufficient time to comfortably handle and apply the foam to a target area without being rushed and or concerned that it may rapidly collapse, liquefy and or disappear. Collapse time is examined by dispensing a given quantity of foam and photographing sequentially its appearance with time during incubation at 36° C. Thus, it is useful for selecting foam products, which are “breakable” but not “quick breaking”, which maintain structural stability at skin temperature for at least a reasonable period of time. In one or more embodiments it can be about more than a minute, about more than two minutes; about more than 3 minutes, about more than 4 minutes, about more than 5 minutes or longer. In one or more limited embodiments it can be shorter than one minute, for example about more than 50 seconds, about more than 40 seconds and occasionally about more than 30 seconds. In a preferred embodiment it can be more than about one minute and in a more preferred embodiment it can be more than about 3 minutes. Collapse time can also provide an indication of the rate of drainage in the foam formulation of the fluid around the bubbles under the influence of gravity. Short collapse times indicate fast or rapid drainage, whilst long collapse times indicate slow drainage.

Pharmaceutical Composition

The foamable composition is an ideal vehicle for active pharmaceutical ingredients and active cosmetic ingredients. In the context active pharmaceutical ingredients and active cosmetic ingredients are collectively termed “active agent” or “active agents”. In one or more embodiments the composition comprises a therapeutically effective concentration of at least one active agent. In one or more embodiments the composition comprises at least two therapeutic agents. In certain embodiments the aprotic formulation facilitates the combination of active agents otherwise unstable in water, which for example are unstable at different pH's.

Suitable active agents include but are not limited to an active herbal extract, an acaricides, an age spot and keratose removing agent, an allergen, an alpha hydroxyl acid, an analgesic agent, an antiacne agent, an antiallergic agent, an antiaging agent, an antibacterial agent, an antibiotic, an antiburn agent, an anticancer agent, an antidandruff agent, an antidepressant, an antidermatitis agent, an antiedemic anent, an antifungal agent, an antihistamine, an antihelminth agent, an antihyperlkeratolyte agent, an anti-infective agent, an antiinflammatory agent, an antiirritant, an antilipemic agent, an antimicrobial agent, an antimycotic agent, an antioxidant, an antiparasitic agent, an antiproliferative agent, an antipruritic agent, an antipsoriatic agent, an antirosacea agent, an antiseborrheic agent, an antiseptic agent, an antiswelling agent, an antiviral agent, an anti-wart agent, an anti-wrinkle agent, an antiyeast agents, an astringent, a beta-hydroxy acid, benzoyl peroxide, a topical cardiovascular agent, a chemotherapeutic agent, a corticosteroid, an immunogenic substance, a dicarboxylic acid, a disinfectant, a fungicide, a hair growth regulator, a haptene, a hormone, a hydroxy acid, an immunosuppressant, an immunoregulating agent, an immunomodulator, an insecticide, an insect repellent, a keratolytic agent, a lactam, a local anesthetic agent, a lubricating agent, a masking agent, a metals, a metal oxide, a mitocide, a neuropeptide, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent, an oxidizing agent, a pediculicide, a peptide, a protein, a photodynamic therapy agent, a radical scavenger, a refatting agent, a retinoid, a sanative, a scabicide, a self tanning agent, a skin protective agent, a skin whitening agent, a steroid, a steroid hormone, a vasoconstrictor, a vasodilator, a vitamin, a vitamin A, a vitamin A derivative, a vitamin B, a vitamin B derivative, a vitamin C, a vitamin C derivative, a vitamin D, a vitamin D derivative, a vitamin D analog, a vitamin F. a vitamin F derivative, a vitamin K, a vitamin K derivative, a wound healing agent and a wart remover. As is known to one skilled in the art, in some instances a specific active agent may have more than one activity, function or effect.

Encapsulation of an Active Agent

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is encapsulated in particles, microparticles, nanoparticles, microcapsules, microspheres, nanocapsules, nanospheres, liposomes, niosomes, polymer matrix, silica-gel, graphite, nanocrystals or microsponges. Such particles can have various functions, such as (1) protection of the drug from degradation; (2) modification of the drug release rate from the composition; (3) control of skin penetration profile; and (4) mitigation of adverse effects, due to the controlled release of the active agent from the encapsulation particles.

Solubility of an Active Agent

In an embodiment, the active agent is not fully soluble in water or, is not fully soluble in the presence of a hydrophobic solvent in the formulation, or is not fully soluble in the oil phase of the emulsion. In one or more embodiments the active agent is soluble in the composition or a phase thereof. In one or more embodiments the active agent is insoluble in water and wherein the active agent is solubilized the in the composition. In an embodiment, the aprotic polar solvent is present in the composition in an amount sufficient to solubilize the active agent in the composition. In one or more embodiments, aprotic polar solvent acts to improve the solubility of an active agent. In certain preferred embodiments, the active agent to be solubilized is selected from the group consisting of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent, a local anesthetic agent, a steroid, an immunomodulators, a keratolytically active agent, an anti-acne agent, an anti-rosacea agent, an antiinfective agent and an anti-psoriasis agent. In a preferred embodiment the active agent to be solubilized is diclofenac. In one or more embodiments a protic solvent acts to improve solubility of an active agent. In one or more embodiments the delivery of the active agent is improved by the aprotic solvent and or protic solvent.

In one or more embodiments the active agent is intended for transdermal delivery. In certain embodiments the aprotic polar solvent in included in the composition in a concentration which is sufficient to increase the rate of absorption of such active agent through organic tissues including skin and nails.

Exemplary Groups of Active Agents NSAID

In an embodiment, the active agent is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent. In the context a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agent (also termed herein “NSAID”) is a pharmaceutically active compound, other than a corticosteroid, which affects the immune system in a fashion that results in a reduction, inhibition, prevention, amelioration or prevention of an inflammatory process and/or the symptoms of inflammation and or the production pro-inflammatory cytokines and other pro-inflammatory mediators, thereby treating or preventing a disease that involves inflammation.

In one or more embodiments, the NSAID is an inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme. Two forms of cyclooxygenase are known today: the constitutive cyclooxygenase (COX-1); and the inducible cyclooxygenase (COX-2), which is pro-inflammatory. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the NSAID is selected from the group consisting of a COX-1 inhibitor, a COX-2 inhibitor or a non-selective NSAID, which simultaneously inhibits both COX-1 and COX-2.

In one or more embodiments, the NSAID is salicylic acid a salicylic acid derivatives. Exemplary salicylic acid derivative include, in a non limiting fashion, aspirin, sodium salicylate, choline magnesium trislicylate, salsalate, diflunisal, salicylsalicylic acid, sulfasalazine, olsalazine, esters of salicylic acid with a carboxylic acid, esters of salicylic acid with a dicarboxylic acid, esters of salicylic acid with a fatty acid, esters of salicylic acid with a hydroxyl fatty acid, esters of salicylic acid with an essential fatty acid, esters of salicylic acid with a polycarboxylic acid, and any compound wherein salicylic acid is linked to an organic moiety through a covalent bond.

In one or more embodiments, the NSAID is para-aminophenol (e.g., acetaminophen) and salts and derivatives thereof.

In one or more embodiments, the NSAID is an indole or an indole-acetic acid derivative (e.g., indomethacin, sulindac, etodolac) and salts and derivatives thereof.

In one or more embodiments, the NSAID is an aryl acetic acids (e.g., tolmetin, diclofenac, ketorolac) and salts and derivatives thereof.

In one or more embodiments, the NSAID is an arylpropionic acid and salts and derivatives thereof. Exemplary arylpropionic acid derivative include, in a non limiting fashion, are ibuprofen, naproxen, flubiprofen, ketoprofen, fenoprofen, oxaprozin.

In one or more embodiments, the NSAID is anthranilic acids or an anthranilic acid derivative, also termed “fenamates” (e.g., mefenamic acid, meclofenamic acid) and salts and derivatives thereof.

In one or more embodiments, the NSAID is selected from the group of enolic acids, enolic acid salts, enolic acid esters, amides, anhydrides and salts and derivatives thereof. Non-limiting examples of enolic acid derivatives include oxicams (piroxicam, tenoxicam) and pyrazolidinediones (phenylbutazone, oxyphenthratrazone)

Yet, in additional embodiments, the NSAID is an alkanone (e.g., nabumetone).

Selective COX-2 Inhibitors include, in an exemplary manner diaryl-substituted furanones (e.g., Rofecoxib); diaryl-substituted pyrazoles (e.g., Celecoxib); indole acetic acids (e.g., Etodolac); and sulfonanilides (e.g., Nimesulide) and salts and derivatives thereof.

In an embodiment, the aprotic polar solvent is present in the composition in an amount sufficient to solubilize the NSAID, as exemplified herein by the solubilization of diclofenac.

Local Anesthetic Agents

In an embodiment, the active agent is a local anesthetic agent. Without limiting the scope of the invention, the anesthetic agent can be selected from the group consisting of benzocaine, lidocaine, bupivacaine, chloroprocaine, dibucaine, etidocaine, mepivacaine, tetracaine, dyclonine, hexylcaine, procaine, cocaine, ketamine, pramoxine, phenol, any pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof and mixtures of such anesthetic agents. Any mixture of synergistically beneficial anesthetic agents is contemplated. In an embodiment, the aprotic polar solvent is present in the composition in an amount sufficient to solubilize the anesthetic agent.

Steroids

In an embodiment, the active agent is a steroid. In certain embodiments the steroid is a corticosteroid, including but not limited to, hydrocortisone, hydroxyltriamcinolone, alpha-methyl dexamethasone, dexamethasone-phosphate, beclomethasone dipropionate, clobetasol valemate, desonide, desoxymethasone, desoxycorticosterone acetate, dexamethasone, dichlorisone, diflorasone diacetate, diflucortolone valerate, fluadrenolone, fluclorolone acetonide, fludrocortisone, flumethasone pivalate, fluosinolone acetonide, fluocinonide, flucortine butylester, fluocortolone, fluprednidene (fluprednylidene) acetate, flurandrenolone, halcinonide, hydrocortisone acetate, hydrocortisone butyrate, methylprednisolone, triamcinolone acetonide, cortisone, cortodoxone, flucetonide, fludrocortisone, difluorosone diacetate, fluradrenolone acetonide, medrysone, amcinafel, amcinafide, betamethasone and the balance of its esters, chloroprednisone, chlorprednisone acetate, clocortelone, clescinolone, dichlorisone, difluprednate, flucloronide, flunisolide, fluoromethalone, fluperolone, fluprednisolone, hydrocortisone valerate, hydrocortisone cyclopentylpropionate, hydrocortmate, mepreddisone, paramethasone, prednisolone, prednisone, beclomethasone dipropionate, triamcinolone, as well as analogs, derivatives, salts, ions and complexes thereof.

In certain embodiments, the steroid is a hormone or a vitamin, as exemplified by pregnane, cholestane, ergostane, aldosterone, androsterone, calcidiol, calciol, calcitriol, calcipotriol, clomegestone, cholesterol, corticosterone, cortisol, cortisone, dihydrotestosterone, ergosterol, estradiol, estriol, estrone, ethinylestradiol, fusidic acid, lanosterol, prednisolone, prednisone, progesterone, spironolactone, timobesone and testosterone, as well as analogs, derivatives, salts, ions and complexes thereof.

In an embodiment, the aprotic polar solvent is present in the composition in an amount sufficient to solubilize the steroid.

Keratolytically Active Agents

A keratolytic agent may be included as an active agent of a foamable composition. The term “keratolytically active agent” as used herein includes a compound that loosens and removes the stratum corneum of the skin, or alters the structure of the keratin layers of skin. Keratolytically active agents are used in the treatment of dermatological disorders that involve dry skin, hyperkeratinization (such as psoriasis), skin itching (such as xerosis), acne and rosacea.

Suitable keratolytically active agents include phenol and substituted phenolic compounds. Such compounds are known to dissolve and loosen the intracellular matrix of the hyperkeratinized tissue. As such, they are used in the treatment of dermatological disorders. Dihydroxybenzene and derivatives thereof have been recognized as potent keratolytic agents. Resorcinol (m-dihydroxybenzene) and derivatives thereof are used in anti-acne preparations. In addition to hydroquinone (p-dihydroxybenzene) having anti-pigmentation properties, hydroquinone is also known to be keratolytic. These compounds also exhibit antiseptic properties. Cresols also possess bactericidal and keratolytic properties.

Vitamin A and vitamin A derivatives, also termed herein “retinoids”, such as retinoic acid, isoretinoic acid, retinol and retinal are another class of keratolytically active agents.

Another group of keratolytically active agents include alpha-hydroxy acids, such as lactic acid and glycolic acid and their respective salts and derivatives; and beta-hydroxy acids, such as salicylic acid (o-hydroxybenzoic acid) and salicylic acid salts and pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives.

Another class of keratolytically active agents includes urea and urea derivatives.

Immunomodulators

In an embodiment, the active agent is an immunomodulator. Immunomodulators are chemically or biologically-derived agents that modify the immune response or the functioning of the immune system. Immunomodulators suitable for use according to the present invention include, among other options, cyclic peptides, such as cyclosporine, tacrolimus, tresperimus, pimecrolimus, sirolimus, verolimus, laflunimus, laquinimod and imiquimod, as well as analogs, derivatives, salts, ions and complexes thereof. Such compounds, delivered in the foam, are especially advantageous in skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema and atopic dermatitis, where the large skin areas are to be treated. In an embodiment, the aprotic polar solvent is present in the composition in an amount sufficient to solubilize the immunomodulator.

Retinoids

In an embodiment, the active agent is a retinoid. Retinoids suitable for use according to the present invention include, among other options, retinol, retinal, retinoic acid, isotretinoin, tazarotene, adapalene, 13-cis-retinoic acid, acitretin all-trans beta carotene, alpha carotene, lycopene, 9-cis-beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, as well as analogs, derivatives, salts, ions and complexes thereof.

Anti-Acne and Anti-Rosacea Active Agents

In an embodiment, the active agent is an anti-acne or an anti-rosacea agent. The anti-acne agent can be selected from the group consisting of resorcinol, sulfur, salicylic acid and salicylates, alpha-hydroxy acids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, benzoyl peroxide, retinoic acid, isoretinoic acid and other retinoid compounds, adapalene, tazarotene, azelaic acid and azelaic acid derivatives, antibiotic agents, such as erythromycin and clyndamycin, coal tar, zinc salts and complexes, and combinations thereof, in a therapeutically effective concentration.

Antipsorasis Agents

In an embodiment, the active agent is an anti-psoriasis agent. Such anti-psoriasis agent can be selected, among other options, from the group of keratolytically-active agents, salicylic acid, coal tar, anthralin, corticosteroids, vitamin D and derivatives and analogs thereof, including vitamin D3 analogs such as calcitriol, calcipotriol; retinoids, such as tazarotene and photodymamic therapy agents.

Antiinfective Agents

In an embodiment, the active agent is an anti-infective agent. Such anti-infective agent can be selected from the group of an antibiotic agent, an antibacterial agent, an antifungal agent, an agent that controls yeast, an antiviral agent and an antiparasitic agent. Exemplary antiinfective agents are exemplified by beta-lactam antibiotic, an aminoglycoside, an ansa-type antibiotic, an anthraquinone, an azole, metronidazole, an antibiotic glycopeptide, a macrolide, erythromycin, clindamycin, an antibiotic nucleoside, an antibiotic peptide, polymyxin B, an antibiotic polyene, an antibiotic polyether, an antibiotic quinolone, an antibiotic steroid, fucidic acid, mupirocin, chloramphenicol, a sulfonamide, tetracycline, an antibiotic metal, silver, copper, zinc, mercury, tin, lead, bismuth, cadmium, chromium, an oxidizing agent, iodine, iodate, a periodate, a hypochlorite, a permanganate, a substance that release free radicals and/or active oxygen, a cationic antimicrobial agent, a quaternary ammonium compound, a biguanide, chlorohexidine, a triguanide, a bisbiguanide, a polymeric biguanide and a naturally occurring antibiotic compound, as well as analogs, derivatives, salts, ions and complexes thereof.

Aprotic Polar Solvents with Therapeutic Properties

In certain embodiments, the aprotic polar solvent possesses therapeutic properties on its own and therefore, it can be regarded as “active agent”. For example, DMSO acts as a topical analgesic, it reduces pain and it also reduces inflammation by several mechanisms. It is an antioxidant—a scavenger of the free radicals that gather at the site of injury.

Because aprotic polar solvents, such as DMSO increases the rate of absorption of some compounds through organic tissues including skin and nails, formulations comprising such aprotic polar solvents can be used as a drug delivery system.

Fields of Applications

The foamable carrier is suitable for treating any inflicted surface. In one or more embodiments, foamable carrier is suitable for administration to the skin, a body surface, a mucosal surface and a body cavity, e.g., the cavity and/or the mucosa of the nose, mouth, eye, ear; respiratory system, vagina or rectum (severally and interchangeably termed herein “target site”).

By selecting a suitable active agent, or a combination of two or more active agents, the foamable composition is useful in treating an animal or a human patient having any one of a variety of dermatological disorders, including dermatological pain, dermatological inflammation, acne, acne vulgaris, inflammatory acne, non-inflammatory acne, acne fulminans, nodular papulopustular acne, acne conglobata, dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, fungal skin infections, viral skin infections, parasitic skin infections, skin neoplasia, skin neoplasms, pruritis, cellulitis, acute lymphangitis, lymphadenitis, erysipelas, cutaneous abscesses, necrotizing subcutaneous infections, scalded skin syndrome, folliculitis, furuncles, hidradenitis suppurativa, carbuncles, paronychial infections, rashes, erythrasma, impetigo, ecthyma, yeast skin infections, warts, molluscum contagiosum, trauma or injury to the skin, post-operative or post-surgical skin conditions, scabies, pediculosis, creeping eruption, eczemas, psoriasis, pityriasis rosea, lichen planus, pityriasis rubra pilaris, edematous, erythema multiforme, erythema nodosum, granuloma annulare, epidermal necrolysis, sunburn, photosensitivity, pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid, dermatitis herpetiformis, keratosis pilaris, callouses, corns, ichthyosis, skin ulcers, ischemic necrosis, miliaria, hyperhidrosis, moles, Kaposi's sarcoma, melanoma, malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, poison ivy, poison oak, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, purpura, moniliasis, candidiasis, baldness, alopecia, Behcets syndrome, cholesteatoma, Dercum disease, ectodermal dysplasia, gustatory sweating, nail patella syndrome, lupus, hives, hair loss, Halley-Halley disease, chemical or thermal skin burns, scleroderma, aging skin, wrinkles, sun spots, necrotizing fascitis, necrotizing moistens, gangrene, scarring, and vitiligo.

Likewise, the foamable composition is suitable for treating a disorder of a body cavity or mucosal surface, e.g., the mucosa of the nose, mouth, eye, ear, respiratory system, vagina or rectum. Non limiting examples of such conditions include chlamydia infection, gonorrhea infection, hepatitis B, herpes, HIV/AIDS, human papillomavirus (HPV), genital warts, bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, chancroid, granuloma Inguinale, lymphogranuloma venereum, mucopurulent cervicitis (MPC), molluscum contagiosum, nongonococcal urethritis (NGU), trichomoniasis, vulvar disorders, vulvodynia, vulvar pain, yeast infection, vulvar dystrophy, vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), contact dermatitis, pelvic inflammation, endometritis, salpingitis, oophoritis, genital cancer, cancer of the cervix, cancer of the vulva, cancer of the vagina, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, anal and rectal disease, anal abscess/fistula, anal cancer, anal fissure, anal warts, Crohn's disease, hemorrhoids, anal itch, pruritus ani, fecal incontinence, constipation, polyps of the colon and rectum.

In an embodiment the composition is useful for the treatment of an infection. In one or more embodiments, the composition is suitable for the treatment of an infection, selected from the group of a bacterial infection, a fungal infection, a yeast infection, a viral infection and a parasitic infection.

In an embodiment the composition is useful for the treatment of wound, ulcer and burn.

In an embodiment the target site is selected from the group consisting of the skin, a body cavity, a mucosal surface, the nose, the mouth, the eye, the ear canal, the respiratory system, the vagina and the reotum.

The composition is also suitable for administering a hormone to the skin or to a mucosal membrane or to a body cavity, in order to deliver the hormone into the tissue of the target organ, in any disorder that responds to treatment with a hormone.

In an embodiment the target site is selected from the group consisting of the skin, a body cavity, a mucosal surface, the nose, the mouth, the eye, the ear canal, the respiratory system, the vagina and the rectum. In an embodiment the disorder is selected from the group consisting of dermatological pain, dermatological inflammation, acne, acne vulgaris, Inflammatory acne, non-inflammatory acne, acne fulminans, nodular papulopustular acne, acne conglobata, dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, fungal skin infections, viral skin infections, parasitic skin infections, skin neoplasia, skin neoplasms, pruritis, cellulitis, acute lymphangitis, lymphadenitis, erysipelas, cutaneous abscesses, necrotizing subcutaneous infections, scalded skin syndrome, folliculitis, furuncles, hidradenitis suppurativa, carbuncles, paronychial infections, rashes, erythrasma, impetigo, ecthyma, yeast skin infections, warts, molluscum contagiosum, trauma or injury to the skin, post-operative or post-surgical skin conditions, scabies, pediculosis, creeping eruption, eczemas, psoriasis, pityriasis rosea, lichen planus, pityriasis rubra pilaris, edematous, erythema multiforme, erythema nodosum, granuloma annulare, epidermal necrolysis, sunburn, photosensitivity, pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid, dermatitis herpetiformis, keratosis pilaris, callouses, corns, ichthyosis, skin ulcers, ischemic necrosis, miliaria, hyperhidrosis, moles, Kaposi's sarcoma, melanoma, malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, poison ivy, poison oak, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, purpura, moniliasis, candidiasis, baldness, alopecia, Behcet's syndrome, cholesteatoma, Dercum disease, ectodermal dysplasia, gustatory sweating, nail patella syndrome, lupus, hives, hair loss, Hailey-Hailey disease, chemical or thermal skin burns, scleroderma, aging skin, wrinkles, sun spots, necrotizing fasciitis, necrotizing myositis, gangrene, scarring, and vitiligo, chlamydia infection, gonorrhea infection, hepatitis B, herpes, HIV/AIDS, human papillomavirus (HPV), genital warts, bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, chancroid, granuloma Inguinale, lymphogranuloma venereum, mucopurulent cervicitis (MPC), molluscum contagiosum, nongonococcal urethritis (NGU), trichomoniasis, vulvar disorders, vulvodynia, vulvar pain, yeast infection, vulvar dystrophy, vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), contact dermatitis, pelvic inflammation, endometritis, salpingitis, oophoritis, genital cancer, cancer of the cervix, cancer of the vulva, cancer of the vagina, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, anal and rectal disease, anal abscess/fistula, anal cancer, anal fissure, anal warts, Crohn's disease, hemorrhoids, anal itch, pruritus ani, fetal incontinence, constipation, polyps of the colon and rectum; and wherein the active agent is suitable for treating said disorder.

In one embodiment the disorder is an inflammation, skin inflammation, acne, rosacea, actinic keratosis, skin cancer, a local pain, joint pain and osteoarthritis; the active agent is a nonsteroidal. anti-inflammatory drug, given at a therapeutically effective concentration.

In one embodiment the disorder is psoriasis; the active agent is a vitamin D, a vitamin D derivative, a vitamin D analog, a vitamin D3 analog (such as calcitriol and calcipotriol) given at a concentration between about 0.0001% and about 0.02% by weight.

In one embodiment the active agent is permethrin. In a Preferred embodiment it is at a concentration between about 1% and about 8% by weight.

Cosmetic Use

In one or more embodiments, the aprotic polar solvent foamable carrier may be used for cosmetic use. For example it may be used as part of a cosmetic formulation to prevent a cosmetic disorder or to improve the skin. Alternatively it may be used with cosmetic effect for example as a cosmetic remover. Unexpectedly, it has been found that foam containing aprotic solvents displays advantages over the prior art removers. It can be dispensed in small quantities as a foam targeted to a surface and applied locally with mechanical force causing the foam to break. The aprotic solvent can then solubilize the cosmetic which can then be and removed for example using a cloth. The foam is short term stable and avoids the mess, spills and over use of liquid aprotic solvents.

The following examples further exemplify the aprotic polar solvent foamable pharmaceutical carriers, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, cosmetic carriers, cosmetic compositions thereof, methods for preparing the same, and uses of the compositions. The examples are for the purposes of illustration only and are not intended to be limiting of the invention. Many variations may be carried out by one of ordinary skill in the art and are contemplated within the full scope disclosed herein.

In one embodiment the foamable compositions and foams are suitable for use in treating, ameliorating, reducing or preventing a dermatological, cosmetic or mucosal disorder. More particularly, they are suitable for use where such disorders would otherwise be less responsive when treated with one agent alone.

Methods/Tests General Manufacturing Procedures

The following procedures are used to produce the foam samples described in the examples below, in which only the steps relevant to each formulation are performed depending on the type and nature of ingredients used.

A) Waterless Formulations

Step 1: Gelling agents, if present, are added to the aprotic polar solvent at room temperature under mixing until formulation homogeneity is obtained. Step 2: The mixture/solvent is warmed to about 50-60° C., surfactants and/or foam adjuvants, if present, are added under agitation until complete dissolution. Step 3: Hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic solvents, if present are heated to 50-60° C. and added under mixing until formulation homogeneity is achieved. Step 4: The mixture is cooled down to room temperature and temperature-sensitive agents (e.g., active agents), humectants, preservatives, pH-buffering agents or cosmetic agents, if present, are added under mixing until dissolution. Step 5: The formulation is packaged in aerosol canisters which are crimped with a valve, pressurized with propellant and equipped with an actuator suitable for foam dispensing.

B) Aqueous or Water Containing Formulations

Step 1: Water is added to the aprotic polar solvent at room temperature. Gelling agents, if present, are added to the mixture at room temperature under mixing until formulation homogeneity is obtained. Step 2: The mixture/aqueous solvent is warmed to about 50-60° C., surfactants and/or foam adjuvants, if present, are added under agitation until complete dissolution. Step 3: Hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic solvents, if present, are heated to 50-60° C. and added under mixing until formulation homogeneity is achieved (to form an emulsion). Step 4: The mixture is cooled down to room temperature and temperature-sensitive agents (e.g., active agents), humectants, preservatives, pH-buffering agents or cosmetic agents, if present, are added under mixing until dissolution. Step 5: The formulation is packaged in aerosol canisters which are crimped with a valve, pressurized with propellant and equipped with an actuator suitable for foam dispensing.

Materials

TABLE 1 Exemplary possible ingredients suitable for the production of foamable comnpositions disclosed herein. Commercial Chemical Name Function Name Supplier Carbomer 934P Gelling agent Carbomer 934P Spectrum Carbomer copolymer Type A Gelling agent Pemulen TR-2 Noveon Ceteth 2 Surfactant Brij 52 Fluka Ceteth 20 Surfactant Lipocol C20 Lipo Cetostearyl alcohol Foam Speziol C16-C18 Cognis adjuvant Diclofenac sodium Active agent Diclofenac sodium Sriken Dimethyl Sulfoxide Solvent Dimethyl Sulfoxide Fluka Ethanol absolute Solvent Ethanol J. T Baker Glycerin Humectant Glycerin Cognis Glycerol Monostearate Surfactant Cutina GMS Cognis Hydroxypropyl cellulose Gelling agent Klucel EF Hercules Hydroxypropyl Gelling agent Methocel K100M Colorcon Dow methylcellulose Light Mineral Oil Solvent Light Liquid Gadot Paraffin Minocycline HCl Active agent Minocycline HCl Hovione Paraffin Wax Thickener; Paraffin 51-53 Merck Stabilizer PEG-100 Stearate Surfactant Myrj 59P Uniqemqa Petrolatum, White Solvent Sofmetic LMP MMP Poloxamer 188 Gelling agent Lutrol F68 BASF Poloxamer 407 Gelling agent Lutrol F127 BASF Polyglyceryl Oleate Surfactant Plurol Oleique Gattefosse CC497 Polysorbate 80 Surfactant Tween 80 Croda Propane/Isobutane/Butane Propellant AP-70 Aeropress (55:18:27) Corporation Propylene glycol Humectant Propylene Glycol Gadot Sorbitan Monooleate Surfactant Span 80 Spectrum Sorbitan Monostearate Surfactant Span 60 Degussa Steareth-2 Surfactant Sympatens Kolb AS/020G Stearic Acid Foam Edenor ST1 Cognis adjuvant Stearyl Alcohol Foam Speziol C18 Cognis adjuvant Terbinafine HCl Active agent Terbinafine HCl Taro Urea Humectant carbamide Gadot Xanthan Gum Gelling agent Xanthan Gum 11K CP Kelco US

Production Under Vacuum

Optionally, the foamable carrier may be produced under nitrogen and under vacuum. Whilst the whole process can be carried out under an oxygen free environment, it can be sufficient to apply a vacuum after heating and mixing all the ingredients to obtain an emulsion or homogenous liquid. Preferably the production chamber is equipped to apply a vacuum but if not the formulation can be for example placed in a desiccator to remove oxygen prior to filing and crimping.

Canisters Filling and Crimping

Each aerosol canister is filled with the pre-foam formulation (“PFF”, i.e., foamable carrier) and crimped with valve using vacuum crimping machine. The process of applying a vacuum will cause most of the oxygen present to be eliminated. Addition of hydrocarbon propellant may without being bound by any theory further help to reduce the likelihood of any remaining oxygen reacting with the active ingredient. It may do so, without being bound by any theory, by one or more of dissolving in the oil or hydrophobic phase of the formulation, by dissolving to a very limited extent in the aqueous phase, by competing with some oxygen from the formulation, by diluting out any oxygen, by a tendency of oxygen to occupy the dead space, and by oxygen occupying part of the space created by the vacuum being the unfilled volume of the canister or that remaining oxygen is rendered substantially ineffective in the formulation.

Pressurizing

Pressurizing is carried out using a hydrocarbon gas or gas mixture. Canisters are filled and then warmed for 30 seconds in a warm bath at 50° C. and well shaken immediately thereafter.

Tests

By way of non-limiting example stability tests are briefly set out below as would be appreciated by a person of the art.

Collapse Time

Collapse time (CT) is examined by dispensing a given quantity of foam and photographing sequentially its appearance with time during incubation at 36° C. It is useful for evaluating foam products, which maintain structural stability at skin temperature for at least 1 minute. Foams which are structurally stable on the skin for at least one minute are termed “short term stable” carriers or foams.

Density

In this procedure, the foam product is dispensed into vessels (including dishes or tubes) of a known volume and weight. Replicate measurements of the mass of foam filling the vessels are made and the density is calculated. The canister and contents are allowed to reach room temperature. Shake the canister to mix the contents and dispense and discard 5-10 mL. Then dispense foam into a pre-weighed tube, filling it until excess is extruded. Immediately remove (level off) excess foam at both ends and weigh the filled tube on the weighing balance.

Viscosity

Viscosity is measured with Brookfield LVDV-II+PRO with spindle SC4-25 at ambient temperature and 10, 5 and 1 RPM. Viscosity is usually measured at 10 RPM. However, at about the apparent upper limit for the spindle of ˜>50,000 CP, the viscosity at 1 RPM may be measured, although the figures are of a higher magnitude.

Chemical Stability

The amount of active agent present is analyzed in foam expelled from various pressurized canisters containing foam formulations using HPLC. Analysis is carried out at zero time and at appropriate time intervals thereafter. The canisters are stored in controlled temperature incubators at one or more of 5 C, at 25 C, at, 40 C and at 50 C. At appropriate time intervals canisters are removed and the amount of active agent in the foam sample is measured.

Bubble Size

Foams are made of gas bubbles entrapped in liquid. The bubble size and distribution reflects in the visual texture and smoothness of the foam. Foam bubbles size is determined by dispensing a foam sample on a glass slide, taking a picture of the foam surface with a digital camera equipped with a macro lens. The diameter of about 30 bubbles is measured manually relatively to calibration standard template. Statistical parameters such as mean bubble diameter, standard deviation and quartiles are then determined. Measuring diameter may also be undertaken with image analysis software. The camera used was a Nikon D40X Camera (resolution 10 MP) equipped with Sigma Macro Lens (ref: APO MACRO 150 mm F2.8 EX DG HSM). Pictures obtained are cropped to keep a squared region of 400 pixels×400 pixels.

Microscopic Observation

The light microscope enables observing and measuring particles from few millimeters down to one micron. Light microscope is limited by the visible light wavelength and therefore is useful to measuring size of particles above 800 nanometers and practically from 1 micron (1,000 nanometers).

When foam is examined under a microscope for the presence of particles, crystals or agglomerates, for example, a cover slide is carefully placed over a small foam sample and pressure is applied to the cover causing most of the bubbles to break. Some of the foam bubbles can sometimes still be observed in the formulations, as can be seen in FIG. 3. The fluid under the cover slide can then be viewed to identify whether or not there are any particles, crystals or agglomerates.

Shakability

Shakability represents the degree to which the user is able to feel/hear the presence of the liquid contents when the filled pressurized canister is shaken. Shaking is with normal mild force without vigorous shaking or excessive force. When the user cannot sense the motion of the contents during shaking the product may be considered to be non-shakable. This property may be of particular importance in cases where shaking is required for affecting proper dispersion of the contents.

Shakability Scoring:

Good shakability (conforms to required quality specification) 2 Moderate shakability (conforms to required quality specification) 1 Not shakable (fails to meet required quality specification) but may 0 still be flowable and allow foam formation of quality Is substantially not able to pass through valve Block

EXAMPLES

The invention is described with reference to the following examples. This invention is not limited to these examples and experiments. Many variations will suggest themselves and are within the full intended scope.

Section A—Waterless Aprotic Foamable Vehicles Example 1—Waterless Composition Containing Dimethyl Sulfoxide (“DMSO”) Alone

% w/w Formulation Ingredients D01 Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) 100.0 Total 100.0 Propellant AP-70 10.0 Foam Properties Foam Quality Poor Collapse Time (sec) 0

Comments: Formulation D01 did not give a foam, but a bubbly liquid. DMSO alone does not have self-foaming or foam-boosting properties. The results may also suggest a defoaming effect or role of aprotic solvents.

Example 2—Waterless Composition Containing Dimethyl Sulfoxide and Various Polymeric (Gelling) Agents

Part A % w/w Formulations Ingredients D02 D03 D04 D05 D06 Dimethyl Sulfoxide 99.0 98.0 98.0 95.0 98.0 Xanthan Gum  1.0 — — — — Hydroxypropyl cellulose —  2.0 — — — Pemulen TR-2 — —  2.0 — — Poloxamer 188 — — —  5.0 — Carbomer 934P — — — —  2.0 Total 100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  Propellant AP-70 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 Foam Properties Foam Quality Poor Fair Fair Fair Fair Collapse Time (sec) 0  5  30   5  0 

Comments: Various different gelling agents were mixed with DMSO. With the exception of xanthan gum, all the other polymers dissolved in DMSO to form liquid gels prior to the addition of propellant. Xanthan did not dissolve and remained as a powder. Compositions D02 to D06, merely produced either bubbly liquids or very watery foams that rapidly collapse and not of quality. The results may also indicate a defoaming effect or role of aprotic solvents.

Part B % w/w Formulations Ingredients D07 D08 Dimethyl Sulfoxide 99.5 99.0 Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose K100M 0.5 1.0 Total 100.0 100.0 Propellant AP-70 10.0 10.0 Foam Properties Foam Quality Good Good Collapse Time (sec) 30 45

Comments: Surprisingly, the addition of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose to DMSO improves the foam quality and gave good quality foams. In contrast hydroxypropyl cellulose without the methyl group even with 4 times the concentration does not produce a foam of quality with DMSO. Moreover, and increase in the hydroxypropyl methylcellulose concentration from 0.5% to 1% improved the foam collapse time from 30 sec to 45 sec. There is however still is a need for a longer collapse time to improve ease of application on the skin. In one or more embodiments the polymeric or gelling agent is hydroxypropyl methylcellulose.

Part C % w/w Formulations Ingredients D22B D22C Dimethyl Sulfoxide 95.0 99.0 Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose K100M — 0.5 Parrafin 51-53 5.0 5.0 Total 100.0 100.0 Propellant AP-70 10.0 10.0 Foam Properties Foam Quality Poor Poor Collapse Time (sec) Immediate Immediate

Comments: Whilst it was shown above in Part B that the addition of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose to DMSO can improve foam quality and generate good quality foam it can been seen here that in the presence of paraffin wax hydroxypropyl methylcellulose was ineffective and poor foam was produced.

Example 3—Waterless Compositions Containing Dimethyl Sulfoxide and Surface Active Agents

% w/w Physical Formulations HLB state D09 D10 D11 D12 D13 D14 D15 D16 Ingredients Dimethyl — Liquid 97.0 97.0 97.0 97.0 97.0 97.0 97.0 94.0 Sulfoxide Tween 80 15.0 Liquid 3.0 — — — — — — — Ceteth 20 15.7 Solid — 3.0 — — — — — 3.0 Polyglyceryl 6.0 Liquid — — 3.0 — — — — — Oleate Sorbitan 4.3 Liquid — — — 3.0 — — — — Monooleate Ceteth 2 5.3 Solid — — — — 3.0 — — 3.0 Sorbitan 4.7 Solid — — — — — 3.0 — — Monostearate Glycerol 3.8 Solid — — — — — — 3.0 — Monostearate Total — — 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 Propellant AP-70 — Gas 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 Foam Properties Foam Quality — — Poor Fair Poor Poor Good Good Excellent Good Collapse Time — — 0 5 0 0 10 >180 >180 10 (sec)

Comments: Various different non-ionic surfactants (surface active agents) were dissolved into DMSO. As shown in formulations 009 to D12, the addition of several surfactants of various HLB values and physical states (solid vs. liquid) merely produced either bubbly liquids or very watery foams that rapidly collapse and not of quality. Formulations D13 and D16 gave good quality foams, but they quickly collapsed and turned into bubbly liquids. Combining linear surfactants one with a high HLB and one with a low HLB (see D16) did not appear to result in any improvement. Therefore, it is not obvious how to create good quality breakable foams with random addition of surfactants.

However, very surprisingly, the addition of sorbitan monostearate or glycerol monostearate to DMSO dramatically improved the foam quality and good to excellent quality breakable foams were produced, which did not collapse after 180 sec of incubation at 36° C. Upon application to a target site and a simple rub of the foams with the hand, these quality foams broke, spread evenly over the skin and were readily absorbed into the skin. For waterless formulations a solid surfactant with a low HLB is preferred.

It can be noted that sorbitan monostearate and glycerol monostearate share some common properties: both of them are solids at room temperature; have a linear fatty acid chain; a polar head (glycerol/sorbitan) and have an HLB value smaller that 5.0. Each one of these properties taken alone is not sufficient to create a good quality breakable foam, as described in formulations D09 to D12 and D16. But without being bound by any theory it is thought that when the properties of solid at room temperature, low HLB, linear hydrophobic chain with a polar head are combined, they act synergistically to create good to excellent quality breakable foams as shown in formulations D14 and D15. In one or more embodiments the surface active agent is a solid with a low HLB. In further embodiments the surface active agent may include a linear hydrophobic chain and a polar head.

Example 4—Waterless Foamable Compositions Containing Dimethyl Sulfoxide, Surface Active Agents and Examples of Different Active Agents

% w/w Formulations D17 D18 D19 Ingredients Dimethyl Sulfoxide 92.0 96.0 96.0 Glycerol Monostearate 3.0 3.0 3.0 Diclofenac 5.0 — — Minocycline HCl — 1.0 — Terbinafine — — 1.0 Total 100.0 100.0 100.0 Propellant AP-70 10.0 10.0 10.0 Foam Properties Foam Quality Good Good Good Collapse Time (sec) >180 >180 >180 Presence of drug crystals None* None* None* *Whilst the API was dissolved some very few surfactant crystals were noted. In one or more embodiments crystals are eliminated or substantially eliminated. By way of non limiting example a co-solvent or a co-surfactant may be added to dissolve the crystals or the amount of agent may be reduced to an optimal level where the crystals dissolve.

Comments: Several active pharmaceutical agents (“API”) were dissolved into stock formulation D15 described above, containing DMSO and glycerol monostearate. As shown in formulations D17 to D19, the addition of various drugs gave good quality breakable foams which did not collapse after 180 sec of incubation at 36° C. Moreover, microscopic observation of foam samples revealed the API's were dissolved in these formulations. It follows that the API bioavailability should be improved if dissolved since the DMSO can then aid penetration

Example 5—Waterless Compositions Containing Dimethyl Sulfoxide and Combinations of Foam Adjuvants, Polymeric with and without Surface Active Agents

Part A—with Surface Active Agents

% w/w Formulations D26 D23 D24 D25 D15 D55 Ingredients Dimethyl Sulfoxide 94.0 94.0 93.5 96.5 97 Dimethyl — — — — — 97 Formamide Stearyl Alcohol 3.0 3.0 3.0 — — — Glycerol — 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 Monostearate Tween 80 3.0 — — — — — Hydroxypropyl — — 0.5 0.5 — — methylcellulose K100M Total 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 Propellant AP-70 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 Foam Properties Foam Quality Good Good Good Good Excel- Poor lent Collapse Time 10 >180 >180 >180 >180 0 (sec)

Comments: A foam adjuvant (stearyl alcohol) was dissolved into DMSO and used with a surfactant Tween. Although the formulation produced a good quality foam it collapsed almost immediately. As shown in Formulation D26, the random combination of a foam adjuvant and a surfactant does not achieve satisfactory results in terms of foam quality and stability, showing the need for an appropriate selection of the foam stabilizing components as taught in this disclosure. Replacing Tween with glycerol monostearate produced quality foam with a collapse time of more than three minutes. In the presence of glycerol monostearate the addition of a foam adjuvant or a gelling agent produced no significant change in the measured parameters. Thus, formulations D23, D24 and D25 describe combinations of two or more stabilizing components appropriately selected from the group consisting of a surfactant; a foam adjuvant and a gelling agent that gave good quality breakable foams that did not collapse after 180 sec at 36° C.

There are advantages to combine one or both of foam adjuvants and gelling agents with surfactants, as this can inter alia bring; a higher formulation viscosity and structure which is suitable for formulations which are to contain a suspension of non-dissolved active agents and thus provide a more homogeneous API suspension; an improved foaming; a more stable emulsion; greater stability when the propellant is added into the formulation, although adding an inappropriate combination or too high viscosity can lead to destabilization on addition of propellant such that successful combinations and the amounts are non obvious in order to achieve a foam of quality and a stable foamable formulation. Moreover, achieving a specific type of foam and foam properties is certainly non obvious. Nevertheless, in one or more embodiments the combination of foam adjuvants and gelling agents with surfactants may enable a decrease in the surfactant concentration without any degradation of the foam properties. Such a decrease in surfactant concentration can be desirable in topical applications, as lower levels can avoid or minimize potential irritation, particularly if the formulations are to be used on sensitive targets such as wounds or body cavities. Moreover, such combinations have been unexpectedly observed to produce surprising synergetic effects.

Formulation D55 containing Dimethylformamide in contrast to what was surprisingly observed with DMSO fails to give a foam of acceptable quality, showing that not all aprotic polar solvents are suitable to be used at high concentrations in combination with glyceryl monostearate.

Pert B—without Surface Active Agents

% w/w Formulations D20 D21 D07 D22 Ingredients Dimethyl Sulfoxide 97.0 97.0 99.5 96.5 Stearyl Alcohol — 3.0 — 3.0 Stearic Acid 3.0 — — — Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose — — 0.5 0.5 K100M Total 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 Propellant AP-70 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 Foam Properties Foam Quality Poor Good Good Good Collapse Time (sec) 0 10 30 120

A foam adjuvant was dissolved in DMSO instead of a surfactant. As seen from formulations D20 and D21, the addition of stearic acid to DMSO gave a bubbly liquid whereas the addition of stearyl alcohol gave a good quality foam but that collapsed almost immediately after 10 sec.

Interestingly, both stearyl alcohol and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose when used separately with DMSO give good quality foams that quickly collapse, after 10 and 30 sec respectively, as seen in formulations D21 and 007. But very surprisingly, when these two components are combined with DMSO, they act synergistically to produce a good quality foam with a substantially improved collapse time of 120 seconds as seen in formulation D22.

In one or more embodiments there is provided a surfactant-free foam formulation comprising DMSO, and fatty alcohols and polymeric agents. In one or more alternative embodiments there is provided a surfactant-free foam formulation comprising DMSO, and fatty alcohols essentially free of polymeric agents. In one or more other embodiments there is provided a surfactant-free foam formulation comprising DMSO and polymeric agents essentially free of fatty alcohols.

Example 6—Comparison of Waterless Foamable Vehicle Compositions Containing DMSO and Urea/Ethanol/Lipophilic Compound with a Control Formulation Containing Water and a Classic Emulsion Foam Formulation Part A—DMSO Formulations

% w/w % w/w % w/w % w/w Formulation D27 D50 D52 D51 Ingredients Dimethyl Sulfoxide 45.0 45.0 45.0 45.0 Glycerin (humectant) 15.0 15.0 15.0 15.0 Propylene glycol 15.0 15.0 15.0 15.0 (humectant) Ethanol 20.0 — — — Urea — 20.0 — — Petrolatum — — 20.0 — Water — — — 20.0 Cetostearyl alcohol 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 Steareth-2 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 Hydroxypropyl cellulose 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 EF Total 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 Propellant AP-70 8.0 8.0 8.0 8.0 Foam properties Foam Quality Good to Good Good Good Excellent Shakability Good Good Good Good Density NM 0.034 0.097 0.063 Collapse NM >180 180 >180 Any after taste NM No Very Slight Yes Any Breath odour NM No Very Slight Yes NM = Not Measured

Comments: Formulations D27 is an example of a waterless foam of good to excellent quality containing 45% DMSO, Ethanol, humectants, a foam adjuvant, a low HLB solid surfactant and a gelling agent. It can be noted that the addition of about 20% of ethanol did not appear to affect the foam stability or quality.

A preliminary study was run with formulations D50, D51 and D52 to determine whether any formulations can prevent the known side effect of or after taste and breath odor after use of DMSO. These DMSO side effects were observed to be suppressed when urea is added to the formulation (see D50), are unexpectedly greatly reduced in case of petrolatum (see D52), but are still present when water is added to the formulation (see D51). Thus, in one or more embodiments, there are provided DMSO formulations that are useful in reducing after taste and breath odor side effects.

Comments: All the formulations D50, D51, D52, produced good to excellent quality foam with low density and good collapse time. To determine which formulations would be compatible and suitable for use with human skin and their hydration effect, if any, double blind corneometer studies were carried out to determine the skin-hydration effect of the formulations.

Part B—Manufacturing Procedure Formulation D50:

-   -   1) Add Hydroxypropyl cellulose EF to water at room temperature         while mixing to “Gel”.     -   2) Heat to 50-60° C. and add Cetostearyl alcohol and Steareth-2         while mixing to dissolution.     -   3) Add slowly Glycerin anhydrous and Propylene glycol while         mixing to homogeneity.     -   4) Cool to RT and add slowly Urea while mixing to homogeneity.     -   5) Complete water if necessary to 100%

Formulation D51:

-   -   1) 2) 3) and 5) as above; 4) Cool to room temperature and add         slowly water while mixing to homogeneity.

Formulation D52:

-   -   1) 2) 3) and 5) as above; 4) Cool to room temperature and add         slowly Petrolatum while mixing to homogeneity.

Formulation D27:

-   -   1) 2) 3) and 5) as above; 4) Cool to room temperature and add         slowly Ethanol while mixing to homogeneity.

Part C—Corneometer Study

Comparison of Formulations D50, D51, D52 with DMSO and a Classic Emollient tested for skin hydration.

Classic Emollient % w/w Isopropyl myristate 6.00 Glycerol monostearate 0.50 PEG-40 stearate 3.00 Stearyl alcohol 1.00 Xanthan gum 0.30 Methocel K100M 0.30 Polysorbate 80 1.00 Water 81.30 Preservative 0.60 Total 100.00 Propellant AP70 8.00

Skin hydration is measured using a Comeometer® CM 825 instrument. (Courage+Khazaka, Koln, Germany). The measuring principle of the Comeometer® CM 825 is based on capacitance measurement of dielectric medium. Any change in the dielectric constant due to skin surface hydration alters the capacitance of a measuring capacitor. It is capable of detecting even slight changes in the skin hydration level.

Study Flow chart is shown below:

STUDY ACTIVITY Baseline* 4 hours Inclusion/exclusion criteria X Application of the test X preparations Assessment of skin hydration X Assessment of tolerability X parameters and Adverse Events

Skin hydration level is assessed at baseline with the Comeometer® CM 825. The formulations are applied in designated chambers under occlusion for 4 hours which are then removed and the skin cleaned. Hydration is then measured.

Study protocol: The study was performed in a temperature controlled room (20-24° C.). Subjects washed their arms with water (no soap) and dried their arms with dry paper towel. Formulations were applied using test chambers. The location of each chamber within the stripe was marked once applied (maximum of 6 stripes on each arm). Each stripe contained only one formulation. One stripe served as a control, non treated area. Formulations, control products and control non treated areas were randomly assigned to the treatment sites according to a randomization list, provided by the study statistician. The application array was unknown to the study operator and subjects. An amount of approximately 4 mg (40 ul) of each of the study formulations was applied on the treatment sites as described by the randomization list. Skin hydration level was assessed at baseline T=0 (minimum 15 minutes following rinse), using the Comeometer® CM 825, and tested based on study design.

Healthy subjects were applied with single dose of formulations D50, D51, and D52 as shown in Part A above and the emollient formulation herein. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, quite unexpectedly the formulations with DMSO have a substantial moisturizing effect when compared with the control and with the Classic Emollient. No significant difference can be seen from the addition of Urea, Petrolatum and Water to the DMSO based formulations. It can be appreciated that the moisturizing effect does not come from urea, petrolatum or water since the effect is closely similar in all three cases. This is completely surprising since DMSO is known for its quick penetration. Also very surprisingly, is the discovery that waterless DMSO formulations D50 and D52 have a substantial moisturizing effect despite the lack of water and additionally they can ameliorate against after taste and breath odor side effects. Thus, in one or more embodiments there are provided DMSO formulations that are useful in improving skin hydration.

Part D—Aprotic-Alcoholic Formulations with 0% 20% and 40% Ethanol and Foam Properties

% w/w % w/w % w/w Formulation D50 D27 D101 Ingredients Dimethyl Sulfoxide 45.00 45.00 45.00 Glycerin (humectant) 15.00 15.00 — Propylene glycol (humectant) 15.00 15.00 6.50 Ethanol 0.00 20.00 40.00 Urea 20.00 — — Cetostearyl alcohol 1.50 1.50 3.00 Steareth-2 2.00 2.00 4.00 Hydroxypropyl cellulose EF 1.50 1.50 1.50 Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 Propellant AP-70 8.00 8.00 8.00 Foam properties Foam Quality Good Good to Excellent Poor Shakability Good Good Good Collapse Time at 36° C. (sec) >180 NM* Immediat *NM: Not Measured

Comments: Formulations D27, D50 and D101 were prepared according to the General Manufacturing Procedures described in the Method/Test section. As can be seen from the above Table Formulations D27 D50, which are waterless formulations containing up to 20% ethanol. provide good to excellent quality breakable foams. However, when the ethanol content reaches 40% of the formulation, a clear defoaming effect is observed and no quality foam was produced, unlike as in formulation D101. The aprotic alcoholic defoaming effect was observed in the presence of surfactant so it follows that in the absence of surfactant the defoaming effect may be of the same order or more pronounced. So in one or more embodiments the level of short chain alcohols, such as, ethanol, is about or less than about 35%, is about or less than about 30%; Is about or less than about 25%, is about or is less than about 20%, is about or is less than about 15%, is about or is less than about 10%, is about or is less than about 5%.

Example 7—Waterless Foamable Vehicle Compositions Containing DMSO and a Hydrophobic Solvent

% w/w Formulations D28 D29 D30 Ingredients Dimethyl Sulfoxide 77.0 73.5 69.0 Stearyl Alcohol — 3.0 5.0 Glycerol Monostearate 3.0 3.0 5.0 Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose K100M — 0.5 1.0 Light Mineral Oil 20.0 20.0 20.0 Total 100.0 100.0 100.0 Propellant AP-70 10.0 10.0 10.0 Foam Properties Foam Quality Fairly Good Good Good Collapse Time (sec) 90 150 >180

Comments: A hydrophobic solvent was added into a mixture of DMSO and glyceryl monostearate. As shown in formulation D28, the addition of mineral oil to DMSO gave a fairly good quality foam that collapsed after 90 sec. In comparison with example D15 (containing DMSO and glyceryl monostearate only), it can be seen that the addition of a hydrophobic solvent has a defoaming effect.

Formulations D29 and D30 show that, when sufficient amounts of a foam adjuvant and a gelling agent are further added to the components of formulation D28, good quality breakable foam that did not collapse after 180 sec can be produced. Thus, in the presence of a hydrophobic solvent the inclusion of additional foam stabilizers to the surfactant substantially improves collapse time.

FIG. 3 depicts a microscopic observation of formulation D30 where droplets can been seen, showing that mineral oil and dimethyl sulfoxide form an emulsion in the presence of a surface active agent. Dimethyl sulfoxide is immiscible with hydrophobic solvents. Thus, it will form a waterless emulsion with hydrophobic solvents with surfactant. Having a hydrophobic solvent present can add to the sensory feeling and help to maintain skin moisture and oil. Although DMSO can aid penetration of other ingredients into the skin and mucosal membrane because DMSO is not miscible per se with hydrophobic solvents it leads to another useful property and advantage; namely that for topical and mucosal body cavity use, where the formulations are to be repeatedly applied and left on the skin or within the body cavity DMSO should not lead to stripping of the skin or mucosal membrane of oils.

Section B—Aqueous or Water Containing Aprotic Formulations Example 8—Compositions Containing 45% Dimethyl Sulfoxide, Water and Surface Active Agents

% w/w Physical Formulations HLB state D32 D33 D34 D35 D36 Ingredients Dimethyl — Liquid 45.0 45.0 45.0 45.0 75.0 Sulfoxide Water — Liquid 52.0 52.0 52.0 52.0 20.0 Tween 80 15.0 Liquid 3.0 — — — — Ceteth 20 15.7 Solid — 3.0 — — — PEG-100 18.8 Solid — — — — 5.0 Stearate Sorbitan 4.3 Liquid — — 3.0 — — Monooleate Glycerol 3.8 Solid — — — 3.0 — Monostearate Total — — 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 Propellant — Gas 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 8.0 AP-70 Foam Properties Foam Quality — — Excel- Excel- Fairly Fair Fairly lent lent Good Good Collapse Time — — 90 75 45 20 not (sec) mea- sured

Comments: Various different surfactants were dissolved into a mixture of DMSO and water. As shown in formulation D34 and D35, the addition of solid or liquid surfactants of HLB value smaller than 5 does not give satisfying foams, but either bubbly liquids or very watery foams that rapidly collapse. This is in contrast to what was observed with waterless formulations where low HLB solid surfactants with a linear fatty acid and a more polar head were preferred. Glycerol monostearate which produces excellent waterless quality foams with DMSO is rendered ineffective here by the addition of water. Further, as seen in formulation D36, the addition of PEG-100 Stearate, a solid surfactant with a high HLB value of 18.8 produced a very watery foam. Thus, making quality foams containing both water and dimethyl sulfoxide is not obvious considering was has been learned above in the production of waterless DMSO foams.

However, surprisingly, the addition of liquid or solid surfactants of HLB value close to 15 such as Tween 80 and Ceteth 20 to the water/DMSO mixture dramatically improves the foam quality. Moreover, this was achieved without the addition of polymer to stabilize the foam. As shown in formulations D32 and D33, excellent quality breakable foams were produced, that did not collapse after 75 to 90 seconds of incubation at 36° C. Upon application to a target site and a simple rub of the foams with the hand, the foams broke, spread evenly over the skin and were readily absorbed into the skin. Without being bound by any theory it may be that the range of surfactants which can be applied successfully in aqueous or water containing DMSO formulations is much wider than available for waterless formulations.

Example 9—Compositions Containing from 25% to 75% DMSO Part A—Formulation Containing Surfactants

% w/w Formulations D36 D38 D37 D39 Ingredients Dimethyl Sulfoxide 75.0 75.0 25.0 75.0 Water 20.0 20.0 70.0 20.0 Poloxamer 188 — 5.0 3.0 3.0 PEG-100 Stearate 5.0 — 2.0 2.0 Total 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 Propellant AP-70 8.0 8.0 8.0 8.0 Foam Properties Foam Quality Fairly Good Fairly Good Good Good

Comments: Formulations D36 and D38 each of which contained only one foam stabilizing component (PEG-100 Stearate and Poloxamer respectively) provided only fairly good foam quality. However, formulations D37 and D39, which contain at least two foam stabilizing components (Cetostearyl alcohol+Poloxamer 407+Methocel K100M; or Poloxamer 188+PEG 100-Stearate) provided good to excellent foam quality. It is interesting to note that PEG-100 Stearate alone and Poloxamer alone fail to produce foams of good quality even at 5% by weight (see formulations D36 and D38). However, when these two components are combined, they surprisingly act synergistically to provide stable and breakable foams of good quality. Thus in one or more embodiments the aprotic foamable compositions comprise a synergistic combination of surface active agent and a polamer with surface active agent like properties, such as PEG 100 Stearate and Poloxamer.

Part B—Formulations without Surfactant

% w/w Formulation D103 Ingredients Dimethyl Sulfoxide 76.60 Water 20.00 Stearyl alcohol 3.00 Methocel K100M 0.40 Total 100.00 Propellant AP-70 8.00 Foam properties Foam Quality Good Shakability Good Collapse Time at 36° C. (sec) 90

Comments: Formulation D103 was prepared according to the General Manufacturing Procedures described in the Method/Test section. This formulation is an example of an aqueous vehicle containing very high amounts of DMSO, some water, a fatty alcohol, a polymeric agent but no surfactant. Surprisingly, and despite the absence of surfactant and the high aprotic solvent level, a breakable foam of good quality was obtained which did not collapse for 90 seconds at 36° C.

In one or more embodiments, there is provided a surfactant-free foam formulation comprising DMSO, water, fatty alcohols and polymeric agents which provides a breakable foam of good quality. In one or more alternative embodiments there is provided a surfactant-free foam formulation comprising DMSO, water, and fatty alcohols essentially free of polymeric agents. In one or more other embodiments there is provided a surfactant-free foam formulation comprising DMSO, water, and polymeric agents essentially free of fatty alcohols.

Example 10—Compositions Containing from 19% to 45% DMSO with and without Diclofenac as an Active Agent (“API”)

Part A—with and without API

% w/w Formulations D40 D42 (Pla- (Pla- cebo) D40 D41 cebo) D42 D43 Ingredients DMSO 45.00 45.00 45.50 45.50 45.50 45.50 Water 30.50 29.00 17.90 18.10 19.60 17.90 Glycerin 7.00 7.00 10.70 10.80 10.80 10.70 Propylene 5.00 5.00 10.70 10.80 10.80 10.70 glycol Ethanol 10.00 10.00 11.20 11.30 11.30 11.20 Cetostearyl 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.80 0.80 1.10 alcohol Poloxamer 407 1.00 1.00 1.00 — — — Hydroxypropyl 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.40 0.40 0.50 methylcellulose K100M PEG — — — 0.80 0.80 0.90 100-Stearate Diclofenac - — 1.50 1.50 — 1.50 1.50 sodium Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 Propellant 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00 AP-70 Foam Properties Foam Quality Excel- Excel- Good Good Good Good lent lent to to Excel- Excel- lent lent Collapse Time >180 >180 >180 >180 >180 >180 (sec) Presence of Pla- No No Pla- No No drug crystals cebo cebo

Comments: Formulations D40 to D43 are examples of foam vehicles with and without an active agent, containing 45% of DMSO, water, humectants, gelling agents, a foam adjuvant and/or surfactants. Formulations which contain at least two foam stabilizing components provided breakable foams of good to excellent quality that did not collapse after 180 sec at 36° C.

It can be noted that the addition of about 10% of ethanol did not appear to affect the foam stability or quality. It can also be noted that the addition of an active agent did not appear to affect foam quality and stability, and that all these compositions fully dissolve diclofenac sodium. Accordingly, the penetration of the dissolved API should be facilitated by the aprotic solvent DMSO to provide good bioavailability.

Part B—DMSO Carrier Formulation without Polymer

% w/w Formulations D100 Ingredients DMSO 45.00 Water 20.00 Ethanol 10.00 Glycerin 10.00 Propylene Glycol 10.00 Cetostearyl alcohol 1.25 Polysorbate 80 1.25 Ceteth-2 1.25 PEG-100 Stearate 1.25 Total 100.00 Propellant AP-70 10.00 Foam Properties Foam Quality Excellent Shakability Good Collapse Time (sec) >180

Comments: Formulation D100 was prepared according to the General Manufacturing Procedures described in the Method/Test section. This formulation is an example of a foam vehicle without polymer containing 45% of DMSO, water, humectant, a foam adjuvant and surfactants that can generate excellent quality foam that did not collapse after 180 sec at 36° C. The presence of about 10% of ethanol did not appear to affect the foam quality or the collapse time.

Part C

A sample of formulation D40 above was tested for additional physical parameters and the results are provided below:

Viscosity of the pre-foam formulation (cPs) 146 Density of the foam (g/ml) 0.066 Foam pH (diluted 1:5 with water) 6.01 Mean Bubble Size (micrometers) 69

Comments: Formulation D44 is an example of a foam vehicle containing 19% of DMSO, 50% of water, a hydrophobic solvent, a gelling agent, a foam adjuvant and a surfactant. It can be seen that formulations containing a protic polar solvent, an aprotic polar solvent, an apolar solvent and a suitable combination of foam stabilizing agents, can provide breakable foams of good to excellent quality that do not collapse after 180 sec.

Part D—Emulsion with Hydrophobic Solvent

w/w % w/w % w/w % Formulations D44 D53 D54 (Placebo) (Placebo) (Placebo) Ingredients DMSO 19.00 45.00 45.00 Water 50.00 29.00 35.00 Light Mineral Oil 20.00 15.00 15.00 Stearyl Alcohol 5.00 5.00 — Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 1.00 1.00 — K100M Glycerol monostearate 5.00 5.00 5.00 Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 Propellant AP-70 10.00 10.00 10.00 Foam Properties Foam Quality Good Good Good Collapse Time (sec) >180 >180 >180 Foam Density — 0.166 0.213

Comments: All the formulations provide quality foams with satisfactory collapse times. Surprisingly, there is no apparent change in quality or collapse on removal of the foam adjuvant and polymer but the density is unexpectedly less when they are present. Without being bound to any theory, it may be that foam adjuvants and/or polymeric agents can enable a better propellant dissolution within the pressurized formulation, and so an improved expansion upon foam dispensing.

Part E—without Surfactant

See Example 9, Part B from which it was unexpectedly observed that a surfactant-free foam formulation comprising DMSO, water, fatty alcohols and polymeric agents provides a breakable foam of good quality.

Part F—Manufacture: Formulation D53:

-   -   1) Mix DMSO and water, Add Methocel K100M at room temperature         and mix until gel formation.     -   2) Heat to 50-60° C., add stearyl alcohol and glycerol         monostearate and mix until dissolution.     -   3) Add slowly light mineral oil and mix until homogeneity is         obtained.     -   4) Cool to room temperature and complete water if necessary to         100%

Formulation D54:

-   -   1) Mix DMSO and Water.     -   2) Heat to 50-60° C. and add glycerol monostearate while mixing         to dissolution.     -   3) &4) As above.

Example 11. Foamable Vehicle Compositions Containing 45% of Aprotic Solvent Part A—Various Other Examples of Aprotic Solvents

% w/w Formulations D45 D46 D47 Ingredients Acetone 45.00 — — Acetonitrile — 45.00 — DMF — — 45.00 Water 30.50 30.50 30.50 Glycerin 7.00 7.00 7.00 Propylene glycol 5.00 5.00 5.00 Ethanol 10.00 10.00 10.00 Cetostearyl alcohol 1.00 1.00 1.00 Poloxamer 407 1.00 1.00 1.00 Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 0.50 0.50 0.50 K100M Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 Propellant AP-70 8.00 8.00 8.00 Foam Properties Foam Quality Good Good Excellent Colapse Time (sec) >180 120 >180

Comments: Formulations D45 to D47 are examples of foam vehicles containing 45% of a polar aprotic solvent, ethanol, water, humectants, gelling agents and a foam adjuvant. The polar aprotic solvents used comprise acetone, acetonitrile and dimethyl formamide. The three formulations provided breakable foams of good to excellent quality that did not collapse after 120 to 180 sec at 36° C., showing that the present invention Includes a range of polar aprotic solvents. It can be noted that the addition of about 10% of ethanol did not appear to affect the foam stability or quality.

Part B—Aprotic-Hydroalcoholic Formulations with 10%: 11.3% and 40% Alcohol

% w/w % w/w % w/w Formulations D40 D42 D102 (Placebo) (Placebo) (Placebo) DMSO 45.00 45.50 30.00 Water 30.50 18.10 15.00 Glycerin 7.00 10.80 — Propylene glycol 5.00 10.80 6.50 Ethanol 10.00 11.30 40.00 Cetostearyl alcohol 1.00 0.80 3.00 Poloxamer 407 1.00 — — Hydroxypropyl 0.50 0.40 — methylcellulose K100M PEG 100-Stearate — 0.80 — Steareth-2 — — 4.00 Hydroxypropyl — — 1.50 cellulose EF Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 Properties AP-70 8.00 8.00 8.00 Foam Properties Foam Quality Excellent Good Excellent Colapse Time (sec) >180 >180 60

Comments: Formulations D40, D42 and D102 were prepared according to the General Manufacturing Procedures described in the Method/Test section. All these aprotic-aqueous formulations produced a foam of quality. Formulation D102 is ah example of aqueous foam containing 30% DMSO, a humectant, a fatty alcohol, a polymer and a surfactant, with a high ethanol content of 40% which surprisingly generated a foam of excellent quality. Due to the high ethanol content of D102, the collapse time is shorter than in formulations D40 and D42, but remains essentially satisfactory. In complete contrast, as can be seen in Example 6 Part D, a similar non-aqueous formulation with 40% alcohol did not produce a foam. Thus, it follows that Aprotic—hydroalcoholic formulations are more resilient than their non-aqueous counterparts and that the presence of a relatively small amount of water aids in the quality and or stabilization of the resultant foam.

Section C—Usability Testing Example 12—Comparative Tolerability and Acceptability Study of a Waterless Foam DMSO Composition Vs. Aqueous Foam DMSO Composition

A panel of three testers was asked to apply on their hand an aqueous DMSO foam preparation and a waterless DMSO foam preparation. The waterless formulation was D15 (see Example 3 above) and the aqueous formulation was D33 (see Example 8 above).

Each was asked to describe their feelings about the ease of application, skin feeling and penetrability of each of the products.

Both formulations were described as having a good appearance and an excellent ease of application and penetration speed into the skin upon slight rubbing. Testers added that the aqueous formulation has a very slight greasy feeling on skin, and the waterless formulation has a slight greasy feeling on skin. In both cases, the greasy feeling disappeared after 10 to 20 seconds. Testers did not report any after-taste or bad breath after application. It may be a further unexpected advantage of DMSO foams that such side effects are absent or ameliorated due to the low density of the foam—allowing small amounts to be spread over a target area—and or due to the composition of formulation.

Section D—Packaging Compatibility Part A—Background

Aprotic solvents, such as, DMSO have outstanding solvent properties, being able to dissolve a wide range of organic and inorganic compounds, including plastics, resins and alloys used in fabrication of canisters and valve parts. Therefore, packaging components for holding and delivering such solvents can readily corrode and/or deteriorate especially when high concentrations are present in the compositions, as disclosed in the present foam formulations.

Aerosol packaging is primarily composed of a coated canister, a valve, an actuator and optionally a dip-tube. The components being in prolonged contact with the formulations are mainly the canister internal coating and valve parts (cup and housing). In the following study the compatibility of various packaging components with highly concentrated DMSO solution was assessed in the absence of propellant.

Part B—Procedure

The tested packaging components are incubated in contact with a solution of DMSO in water (50:50 w/w) during up to six months at 50° C. At the desired time-points, the packaging components are removed from the incubators, canisters are opened and a visual observation is performed to determine the presence deterioration, corrosion, peeling, scratches, etc that may result from the prolonged contact with the DMSO solution.

Part C—Compatibility Results

An aluminum canister with a polyimide amide (PAM) internal coating was filled with a solution of DMSO in water (50:50 w/w), crimped with an epoxy coated valve having a dip-tube and incubated at 50° C.

Incubation Canister conditions coating Valve cup Valve housing Dip-tube 1 M 50° C. no change no change slight change in color no change 2 M 50° C. no change no change color became pale no change yellow 3 M 50° C. no change no change color became pale no change yellow 6 M 50° C. no change no change color became yellow no change

Surprisingly, no canister deterioration was observed, even after 6 months at 50° C. No corrosion or deterioration was observed in the valve cup and in the dip-tube. Only a minor change in color of the valve housing was observed, which is acceptable and not considered as deterioration.

However, a canister with an internal coating made of phenol epoxy and containing formulation D22 showed signs of corrosion after 6 months at room temperature. The valve cup and housing though was of epoxy type and did not show any sign of corrosion. There was no diptube in this canister. So over time during storage canisters, for example, with phenol epoxy coatings can display corrosion and deterioration.

In one or more embodiments, there is provided a kit comprising an aerosol canister, a valve, an actuator, optionally a dip-tube, and a DMSO foam formulation, wherein the packaging components are compatible with a formulation containing DMSO, and wherein essentially no corrosion or deterioration is observed. In one or more embodiments the canisters are essentially free of corrosion and or deterioration for 1 month, or 2 months or for 3 months or for 6 months or for 12 months or for 18 months or for 24 months at room temperature. In one or more further embodiments the canisters are essentially free of corrosion and or deterioration for t month, or for 2 months, or for 3 months, or for 6 months, or for 12 months, or for 18 months, or for 24 months at 40° C. In one or more further embodiments the canisters are essentially free of corrosion and or deterioration for 1 month, or 2 months or for 3 months, or for 6 months, or for 12 months, or for 18 months, or for 24 months at 50° C. In one or more other embodiments any corrosion and or deterioration observed was not of significance. In one or more embodiments any corrosion and or deterioration observed in the canisters was not of significance for 1 month, or for 2 months, or for 3 months, or for 6 months, or for 12 months, or for 18 months, or for 24 months at room temperature. In one or more further embodiments any corrosion and or deterioration observed in the canisters was not of significance for 1 month, or for 2 months, or for 3 months, or for 6 months, or for 12 months, or for 18 months, or for 24 months at 40° C. In one or more further embodiments any corrosion and or deterioration observed in the canisters was not of significance for 1 month, or for 2 months, or for 3 months, or for 6 months, or for 12 months, or for 18 months, or for 24 months at 50° C.

Part D—Can in Can

Background: A bag in can be used in three basic ways with propellant, namely, a) with the propellant not in the bag and being separate from the formulation in the bag; b) with propellant present in the formulation in the bag only; c) with propellant both in the bag and outside of the bag. In case a) without surfactant the formulation is likely to exit as a gel or fluid. In cases b) and c) the formulation can foam. The propellant outside the bag is to expel the contents of the bag. The propellant within the formulation in the bag is to generate foam. When the formulation is primarily expelled by propellant outside the bag then the amount of propellant in the formulation can influence foam properties, such as, density.

An aluminum can-in-can canister with a phenol epoxy internal coating was filled with a solution of DMSO in water (50:50 w/w), crimped with an epoxy coated valve without dip-tube and incubated for one month at 50° C.

After opening of the canister, no corrosion or deterioration was observed neither on the canister internal coating, nor on the different valve parts.

In one or more embodiments, there is provided a kit comprising a can-in-can aerosol canister, a valve, an actuator, optionally a dip-tube, and a DMSO foam formulation, wherein the packaging components are compatible with a formulation containing DMSO, and wherein no corrosion or deterioration is observed. In one or more embodiments the canisters are essentially free of corrosion and or deterioration for 1 month, or 2 months or for 3 months or for 6 months or for 12 months or for 18 months or for 24 months at room temperature. In one or more further embodiments the canisters are essentially free of corrosion and or deterioration for 1 month, or for 2 months, or for 3 months, or for 6 months, or for 12 months, or for 18 months, or for 24 months at 40° C. In one or more further embodiments the canisters are essentially free of corrosion and or deterioration for 1 month, or 2 months or for 3 months, or for 6 months, or for 12 months, or for 18 months, or for 24 months at 50° C. In one or more other embodiments any corrosion and or deterioration observed was not of significance. In one or more embodiments any corrosion and or deterioration observed in the canisters was not of significance for 1 month, or for 2 months, or for 3 months; or for 6 months, or for 12 months, or for 18 months, or for 24 months at room temperature. In one or more further embodiments any corrosion and or deterioration observed in the canisters was not of significance for 1 month, or for 2 months, or for 3 months, or for 6 months, or for 12 months, or for 18 months, or for 24 months at 40° C. In one or more further embodiments any corrosion and or deterioration observed in the canisters was not of significance for 1 month, or for 2 months, or for 3 months, or for 6 months, or for 12 months, or for 18 months, or for 24 months at 50° C. 

1.-45. (canceled)
 46. A composition formulated for skin delivery of an active agent comprising: at least one active agent; a non-aqueous solvent comprising a short chain alcohol and a protic polar solvent comprising a polyol; a polymeric agent; and a modulating agent; wherein the composition comprises less than about 5% of water.
 47. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the active agent is chosen from a beta-lactam antibiotic, an aminoglycoside, an ansa-type antibiotic, an anthraquinone, an azole, a metronidazole, an antibiotic nucleoside, an antibiotic peptide, polymyxin B, an antibiotic polyene, an antibiotic polyether, an antibiotic quinolone, an antibiotic steroid, a fucidic acid, a mupirocin, a chloramphenicol, a sulfonamide, a tetracycline, a minocycline, a doxycycline, an antibiotic metal, silver, copper, zinc, mercury, tin, lead, bismuth, cadmium, chromium, an oxidizing agent, iodine, an iodate, a periodate, a hypochlorite, a permanganate, a substance that releases free radicals and/or active oxygen, a cationic antimicrobial agent, a quaternary ammonium compound, a biguanide, a chlorohexidine, a triguanide, a bisbiguanide, a polymeric biguanide, a naturally occurring antibiotic compound and a mixture of any two or more thereof.
 48. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the active agent comprises a minocycline.
 49. The composition according to claim 48, wherein the minocycline is a minocycline hydrochloride.
 50. The composition according to claim 47, wherein the active agent is present in a therapeutically effective amount.
 51. The composition according to claim 50, wherein the therapeutically effective amount ranges from about 1% to about 5% by weight of the composition.
 52. The composition according to claim 51, wherein the therapeutically effective amount is about 1% by weight of the composition.
 53. The composition according to claim 51, wherein the therapeutically effective amount is about 4% by weight of the composition.
 54. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the short chain alcohol comprises ethanol.
 55. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the short chain alcohol is present in an amount above about 25% by weight of the composition.
 56. The composition according to claim 55, wherein the short chain alcohol is present in an amount above about 40% by weight of the composition.
 57. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the polyol comprises a diol.
 58. The composition according to claim 57, wherein the diol comprises a propylene glycol.
 59. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the modulating agent is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the composition.
 60. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the modulating agent comprises an anti oxidizing agent.
 61. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the protic polar solvent is present in an amount of about 2% to about 50% by weight of the composition.
 62. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the polymeric agent comprises a cellulose ether.
 63. The composition according to claim 62, wherein the cellulose ether comprises a hydroxypropyl cellulose.
 64. The composition according to claim 46, further comprising an antibiotic metal.
 65. The composition according to claim 46, further comprising an essential oil.
 66. The composition according to claim 46, further comprising at least one additional component.
 67. The composition according to claim 66, wherein the additional component comprises a fragrance.
 68. The composition according to claim 66, wherein the additional component comprises an herbal extract.
 69. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the active agent is not fully soluble in water, wherein the active agent is solubilized in the composition and wherein the composition is waterless or essentially waterless.
 70. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the composition is waterless or essentially waterless.
 71. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the short chain alcohol is selected from ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, iso-butanol, t-butanol, pentanol, and a mixture of any two or more thereof.
 72. The composition according to claim 62, wherein the cellulose ether is present in an amount ranging from about 0.4% to about 1.5% by weight of the composition.
 73. The composition according to claim 64, wherein the antibiotic metal is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the composition.
 74. The composition according to claim 73, wherein the antibiotic metal is present in an amount of about 1% to about 5% by weight of the composition.
 75. The composition according to claim 46, wherein the active agent is not fully soluble in a hydrophobic solvent, wherein the active agent is solubilized in the composition, and wherein the composition is waterless or essentially waterless.
 76. The composition according to claim 48, wherein the minocycline is dissolved.
 77. A foamable composition formulated for skin delivery of an active agent comprising: a minocycline; an antibiotic metal; a non-aqueous solvent comprising a short chain alcohol comprising ethanol and a protic polar solvent comprising a polyol; a modulating agent comprising an antioxidizing agent; and a polymeric agent comprising a cellulose ether, wherein the minocycline is dissolved in the composition; and wherein the foamable composition comprises less than about 5% of water.
 78. The foamable composition according to claim 77, wherein the protic polar solvent is present in an amount of about 2% to about 50% by weight of the composition.
 79. The foamable composition according to claim 77, wherein the short chain alcohol is present in an amount above about 25% by weight of the composition.
 80. The foamable composition according to claim 79, wherein the short chain alcohol is present in an amount above about 40% by weight of the composition.
 81. The foamable composition according to claim 77, further comprising an essential oil.
 82. A method of treating a skin disorder of a mammalian subject comprising administrating the foamable composition of claim 46 to a target site, wherein the disorder is selected from an infection, an inflammation, an acne, a rosacea, a psoriasis, an eczema, and an atopic dermatitis.
 83. The method according to claim 82, wherein the disorder is an infection or an inflammation.
 84. The method according to claim 82, wherein the disorder is an acne or a rosacea.
 85. The method according to claim 82, wherein the active agent in the composition comprises a minocycline.
 86. The method according to claim 82, wherein the disorder is selected from an acne, a rosacea, a psoriasis, an eczema, and an atopic dermatitis.
 87. The method according to claim 82, wherein the minocycline is minocycline hydrochloride and the foamable composition comprises less than 2% by weight of water.
 88. A non-aqueous composition formulated for skin delivery of an active agent comprising: a minocycline in a therapeutically effective amount of about 1% to about 5% by weight of the composition; a short chain alcohol comprising ethanol present in an amount of at least 55% by weight of the composition; about 2% to about 50% by weight of the composition of a protic polar solvent comprising propylene glycol; a polymeric agent comprising a cellulose ether, wherein the cellulose ether is a hydroxypropyl cellulose present in an amount ranging from about 0.5% to about 1% by weight of the composition; a modulating agent comprising an antioxidizing agent present in an amount ranging from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of the composition; a metal; and an essential oil, wherein the composition is non-aqueous or essentially non-aqueous.
 89. The non-aqueous composition according to claim 88, wherein the minocycline is dissolved in the composition.
 90. The non-aqueous composition according to claim 89, wherein the minocycline is a minocycline hydrochloride.
 91. The non-aqueous composition according to claim 88, wherein the protic polar solvent is about 12% to about 30% by weight of the composition.
 92. The non-aqueous composition according to claim 88, wherein the composition is free or essentially free of surfactant.
 93. The non-aqueous composition according to claim 92, wherein the composition is free or essentially free of fatty alcohol having 15 or more carbons in their carbon chain. 